Postdoc Experimental Study of Ice Formation Process for Contrails
Contrails are aviation sector’s invisible climate threats with large uncertainties. You’ll investigate contrail formation pathways for various particles through lab experiments.
Job description
Facing the climate crisis, the aviation industry has developed an ambitious “net-zero” goal to decarbonize. The potential mitigation measures include technolgy advances for low emissions, using alterantive fuels like sustainable aviation fuels and hydrogen. However, a large part of the aviation’s climate effects originates from the non-CO2 emissions, e.g., contrail with a large uncertainty still. Amongst all, one important research gap is the contrail formation pathways attributed to different engine exhaust conditions, which is crucial for the further development of contrails hence the resulting climate impact.
In this research, you will design a proper experimetal setup to investigate the ice nucleation pathways related to different emissions characteristics at the engine exhaust. The collected data would be helpful to validate the microphysics models for ice nucleation process, hence clarifying the different nucleation pathways for ice formation. You will collaborate with other researchers inside and outside our research group to stength the research outcome.
Job requirements
- A PHD degree in a relevant subject, such as aerospace engineering, aeronatucial engineering, atmospheric sciences, or (applied) physics.
- Excellent lab-experiences
- Advanced mathematical, analytical skills, and programming skills, e.g., in Python.
- A keen interest in interdisciplinary research.
- An excellent command of English, as you’ll be working in an internationally diverse community and with international partners.
- Ability to learn independently and passion for research
- Team player, open to discussion and constructive criticism
- Previous involvement in scientific research is a plus
TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.
For over 180 years, we have been training engineers who make an impact worldwide in companies, government bodies, or as entrepreneurs. Our alumni turn knowledge into concrete solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow. These challenges are changing rapidly. That is why we focus on themes such as energy, climate, digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart mobility every day. Our education and research are directly aligned with what society needs now and in the future.
At TU Delft, our people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, our staff provide a high-quality education and conduct pioneering research that extends beyond the campus. You will have the opportunity to take the initiative, work with others, and grow as a professional. Working at TU Delft means join an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.
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
- Duration of contract is 2 years Temporary
- A job of 36-40 hours per week.
- Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
- An excellent pension scheme via the ABP.
- The possibility to compile an individual employment package every year.
- Discount with health insurers on supplemental packages.
- Flexible working week.
- Every year, 232 leave hours (at 38 hours). You can also sell or buy additional leave hours via the individual choice budget.
- Plenty of opportunities for education, training and courses.
- Partially paid parental leave
- Attention for working healthy and energetically with the vitality program.
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, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. 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 Dr.Feijia Yin, via f.yin@tudelft.nl.
Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 18 September 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:
- CV
- Motivational letter
- Course grade summary
You can address your application to Dr.Feijia Yin. Optionally, upload the best 3 documents (or links to resources) that show your experience in the aforementioned topics. Time to shine!
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.