PhD Position Optical Characterisation of Performance Limits in Materials under Cryogenic Conditions (Aerospace Engineering)

TL;DR

PhD Position Optical Characterisation of Performance Limits in Materials under Cryogenic Conditions (Aerospace Engineering): Investigating aerospace material deformation and degradation under cryogenic temperatures and strain rate regimes with an accent on developing reliable testing methodologies. Focus on implementing optical measurement techniques such as digital image correlation and high-speed imaging to validate numerical models for hydrogen aircraft structures.

Location: Must be based in or relocate to Delft, Netherlands

Salary: €3,059 – €3,881 per month

Company

hirify.global is a top international university combining science, engineering, and design to address global challenges in energy, climate, and mobility.

What you will do

• Develop and formalize knowledge of material deformation mechanisms in cryogenic conditions.
• Create testing methodologies to observe and measure damage under large temperature gradients.
• Utilize optical measurement techniques (DIC, pattern tracking, high-speed imaging, thermography) for full-field characterization.
• Provide experimental data to validate new numerical models for future composite structures.
• Disseminate research outcomes through journal papers, conferences, and industrial collaborations.
• Contribute to doctoral education courses and potentially mentor MSc students.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, applied physics, materials science, or related discipline.
• Strong interest in experimental testing and material behavior under extreme environmental and loading conditions.
• Hands-on experience with experimental setups, measurement systems, or laboratory instrumentation.
• English: Good level of proficiency required for academic and industrial communication.
• Ability to work both independently and within an interdisciplinary research team.

Nice to have

• Experience with digital image correlation or image processing.
• Knowledge of thermography, cryogenic testing, or composite materials.
• Experience with numerical modelling or non-destructive testing.

Culture & Benefits

• 4-year employment period structured across two contracts.
• 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus.
• Customisable compensation package and discounts on health insurance.
• Access to the hirify.global Graduate School and a comprehensive doctoral education program.
• Relocation support via the Coming to Delft Service and a Dual Career Programme for partners.

Hiring process

• Application requires a motivation letter, detailed CV, and degree transcripts.
• Motivation letter must specifically address challenges in cryogenic material characterisation using optical techniques.
• Final stages include a knowledge security risk assessment.