Assistant Professor in Remote Sensing Space Instrumentation

Join TU Delft to develop cutting-edge polarimetric optical sensors for Earth and (exo-) planetary exploration. Advance space science, inspire students, and drive the future of remote sensing.

Job description

Imagine having the opportunity to develop tools for detecting exoplanets and identifying biomarkers. What if you could take part in creating space instruments that monitor global changes on Earth? You could blend cutting-edge research in optics, polarimetry, and photonics to design innovative optical sensors for space applications. Additionally, you would have the chance to mentor students in aerospace, connecting their learning with your own research. As an Assistant Professor at TU Delft, you will help tackle the technological challenges of space remote sensing, leading to significant advancements in planetary and exoplanetary science, as well as heliophysics and universe sensing.

At TU Delft, we are offering an Academic track position with the potential for growth into an Associate or Full Professor role. You will be part of a team of passionate thinkers capable of both focusing on intricate details and understanding the broader context. As an Assistant Professor, you will build on existing research and introduce new experimental and theoritical topics related to space remote sensing (such as hyperspectral imaging, surface polarimetry, full Stokes vector analysis,…) applied to earth observation and well as planetary exploration, aiming to deliver clear and relevant social benefits. This multifaceted role encompasses research, teaching, and networking. We seek someone who can persuade members of space agencies to provide funding, collaborate effectively with PhD students, and analyze complex data.

We welcome incoming Assistant Professors into a supportive environment where personal and professional development is highly valued. We provide opportunities for collaboration and integration with different fields, promoting collective intelligence and creativity. You’ll develop your own experimental research within the Space Engineering Department, contribute to our Space Instrumentation Section and integrate novel research into real space missions with researchers, engineers and students. Apply now and be a part of shaping the future of space instrumentation and join a university that fosters a positive and conducive atmosphere for thinking and innovation, allowing diverse perspectives and ideas to flourish.

Job requirements

You are a creative, collaborative and communicative individual with a passion for space instrumentation and observation. You share our values of collective intelligence and integrating knowledge through teamwork.

You also have:

• A PhD in Aerospace, Electrical or Mechanical Engineering, or Physics.
• Aptitude in the engineering of actual space systems.
• Familiarity with space development and qualification procedures.
• Teaching experience and willingness to teach and develop as a teacher.
• Experience in direct research space projects

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology) 

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. 

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration. 

Challenge. Change. Impact! 

Faculty Aerospace Engineering 

The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is a leading international community where innovation in aerospace meets global challenges. Our support and scientific staff, including PhD candidates, postdocs, and students, largely work together on three main themes: the energy transition, sustainable aerospace, and safety and security, with the aim of tackling climate change and contributing to the independence and security of Europe.

When you join us, you become part of a diverse, collaborative, and forward-thinking environment where your ideas and perspectives are valued. Our work extends beyond the lab—into field labs, innovation hubs, and partnerships with other faculties, research institutes, governments, and industry, both locally and globally.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming workplace, assisted by an active Diversity & Inclusion team. This includes tangible support such as funding for extra personnel for family and caregiving responsibilities, mentoring programmes, and initiatives that promote cultural exchange and integration.

You don’t just join our faculty — you join a community where you can thrive, grow, and help shape the future of aerospace.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering. 

Conditions of employment 

This position is offered as an Academic Career Track position (0.8 – 1.0 FTE). During the Academic Career Track, we expect you to grow towards an Associate Professor position within a maximum of eight years, for which a position will be available. With other Academic Career Track colleagues, you will participate in the Academic Career Track Development programme, where you are offered ample opportunities to develop yourself in the areas of Education, Research, Societal Impact & Innovation, and Leadership & Organisation. You will regularly discuss your development and results with senior staff based on a personalized development plan and performance criteria agreed upon at the start of your Academic Career Track. You will start with a temporary contract that will be converted to a permanent contract no later than 12 -18 months after a positive evaluation, based on continuous confidence in your development potential and fit in the organisation. 
 
Inspiring, excellent education is our central aim. We expect you to obtain a University Teaching Qualification (UTQ) within three years if you have less than five years of teaching experience. This is provided by the TU Delft UTQ programme as part of the Academic Career Track Development programme. 
 
TU Delft sets high standards for the English competency of the teaching staff. The TU Delft offers training to improve English competency. If you do not speak Dutch, we offer courses to learn the Dutch language within three years. 
 
Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged and you can work partly from home. 

Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, provides information and personal one-on-one guidance to help you prepare your relocation, and to find housing and schools for children (if applicable). In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands. . 

Additional information

If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Jérôme Loicq, via j.j.d.loicq@tudelft.nl or .

Application procedure

Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 1 Mar 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:

• CV
• Motivational letter

You can address your application to Jérôme Loicq.

Please note:

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post. 
• As part of knowledge security, TU Delft conducts a risk assessment during the recruitment of personnel. We do this, among other things, to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology. The assessment is based on information provided by the candidates themselves, such as their motivation letter and CV, and takes place at the final stages of the selection process. When the outcome of the assessment is negative, the candidate will be informed. The processing of personal data in the context of the risk assessment is carried out on the legal basis of the GDPR: performing a public task in the public interest. You can find more information about this assessment on our website about knowledge security.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.