Postdoc in Future Aviation Concepts: Aircraft Design and Novel Propulsion Systems

Do you want to contribute to groundbreaking research in the field of novel propulsion systems and aircraft design?

This is an exciting opportunity for a postdoctoral position at the Division of Fluid Mechanics, Department of Mechanics and Maritime Sciences. You will be leading research activities in a large EU project and will have the opportunity to collaborate with large institutes and the aviation industry across Europe.

About Us

At the Department of Mechanics and Maritime Sciences (M2), the engineers and researchers of tomorrow are trained with their eyes set on the transition to a sustainable transport system. Our research portfolio is unique and covers all modes of transport and contributes to environmentally friendly process technology and sustainable energy supply. Through collaboration with society and industry, we strive to solve society's major challenges – together.

At the Division of Fluid Dynamics, we develop advanced experimental and computational techniques to investigate flows in both fundamental and applied contexts. Using state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, we advance understanding of turbulent incompressible, compressible, and multiphase flows through coordinated research.

The research group of turbomachinery and aeroacoustics consists of three professors, one assistant professor, three researchers, and 10 Ph.D. students. Our research scope ranges from investigating new aircraft propulsion concepts to the preliminary aerothermal design of novel turbomachinery components and heat exchangers. We have a strong European network with major aircraft engine OEMs and collaborate with top European universities in several EU aviation projects.

About the Research Project EXAELIA

The project is related to the development of future aircraft concepts and propulsion technology that has the potential to bridge the gap for climate neutrality in aviation by 2050. This will be done by combining expertise that ranges from aircraft design to engine design and integration, and aircraft operations. The overarching goal is to develop the next generation flight test platform that can support the development of new cutting-edge technology. More information can be found on the EXAELIA website.

Who We Are Looking For

We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher who wants to contribute to the development of next-generation aircraft and integrated novel propulsion technologies, with a strong focus on hydrogen-enabled concepts. The ideal candidate is curious, collaborative, and driven by scientific quality, and enjoys working in a research environment that combines fundamental understanding with system-level engineering relevance.

We welcome applicants with a PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Energy Engineering, Applied Physics, or a closely related field. The candidate should have a strong track record (relative to career stage) in research, demonstrated through publications, conference participation, or other relevant scientific outputs. Experience in one or more of the following areas is considered a strong merit:

• Aircraft design (conceptual design and performance evaluation)
• Propulsion systems (performance and integration)
• Multidisciplinary modeling (combining engine, components, overall system performance)
• Numerical methods and simulation tools (e.g., Python/Matlab, CFD modeling, optimization)

Beyond technical skills, we value people who contribute to a healthy and inclusive workplace. We therefore look for someone who communicates clearly, shares knowledge generously, and enjoys working in diverse teams across disciplines and backgrounds. You are expected to take an active role in planning and driving research activities, contributing to high-quality publications, and supporting the development of junior researchers when appropriate.

At Chalmers, we believe excellent research is built on respect, integrity, and collaboration. We encourage applications from candidates with different experiences and perspectives, and we are committed to providing a supportive environment where everyone can thrive and develop.

What You Will Do

• Conduct research in developing new aircraft and propulsion system concepts that allow aviation to become more energy efficient.
• Supervise master’s and/or PhD students to support your own research activities.
• Possibility to engage in teaching at undergraduate/master’s level.

Contract Terms

The position is a temporary full-time employment for two years with the possibility of a one-year extension.

The position requires physical presence throughout the entire employment. A valid residence permit must be presented by the start date, otherwise the offer may be withdrawn.

What We Offer

• As a postdoc at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits. Read more about working at Chalmers (https://www.chalmers.se/en/about/work-at-chalmers/benefits-for-employees) and our benefits (https://www.chalmers.se/en/about/work-at-chalmers/benefits-for-employees) for employees.
• A dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.
• Read more about Sweden’s generous parental leave, subsidized daycare, free schools, healthcare etc. at Move To Gothenburg (https://www.movetogothenburg.com/).

Application Procedure

The application should be written in English and attached as PDF files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.

CV

• A comprehensive CV, including a complete list of publications.
• Describe your undergraduate and graduate studies and share the list of courses studied (grades).
• Details of previous teaching and pedagogical experience.

Personal Letter

• A brief introduction about yourself.
• A summary of your previous research fields and key research outcomes.
• An outline of your future goals and research focus.

Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form.

Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered. Contact details to references will be requested after the interview.

Application deadline: 4th March 2026

For questions, please contact:

Carlos Xisto
Professor
[email protected]