The transition of airflow from laminar to turbulent state is a major contributor to aerodynamic drag and consequently aircraft emissions. Often, unavoidable modifications of the wing surface, such as panel joints or skin deformations, decrease the extent of laminar airflow by promoting transition. However, through our research, we showed that this is not always the case. In a recent breakthrough, our team discovered the “Delft Laminar Hump”, a passive smooth surface modification. The proof‑of‑concept experiments showed the capability of the Hump to create an unprecedented delay of transition, effectively increasing the extent of laminar flow.
The “Running up that Hill” project aims at achieving a clear physical understanding of the interaction between laminar‑turbulent transition and surface modifications such as the Delft Laminar Hump. The fundamental and technical outcomes of this work will position Hump‑like surface modifications as an enabling technology for curbing environmental emissions of aviation.
In addition to fundamental work, the project is supported by leading aerospace partners such as KLM, DNW, and Deharde as well as by world‑leading groups at U. Waterloo, Canada and KTH, Sweden. Opportunities for research stays with these organisations will be available within the project.
We are seeking an enthusiastic and skilled PhD candidate to join our team and work on this exciting project.
The PhD project will encompass theoretical and numerical modelling, necessary to simulate and optimise the effect of surface modifications on swept wing transition. Particular emphasis will be given to adjoint‑based optimisation due to the large number of design parameters, versus a small number of cost functions, such as transition location. Flow stability analysis tools available in our team can be used, including Orr‑Sommerfeld solvers, linear/non‑linear Parabolised Stability Equations and our non‑linear Harmonic Navier–Stokes solver. An extensive validation effort will involve high‑fidelity Direct Numerical Simulations, in collaboration with the group at KTH Stockholm (Prof. D. Henningson and Dr. A. Hanifi). Research stays at KTH will be covered by the project.
About the teamWe are a young, international, and diverse team of colleagues working on topics closely related to the newly founded chair of Flow Control. We approach problems in a horizontal “team spirit” and continuously traverse boundaries between theory, simulations, and experiments towards understanding and controlling fluid flows. Our team strives for a co‑creative and stimulating environment where we can develop our skills as a scientist, team member and teacher. We place great emphasis on a collegial working environment where everyone is welcome and encouraged to shape the PhD track.
We also enjoy many team‑building activities and events where you can get to know your teammates in a different environment, share personal life experiences and have a great time outside of the lab!
AccessibilityAlmost 90% of our laboratory and offices are wheelchair accessible, including all wind tunnel facilities. If you have any specific concerns about accessibility, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Job requirements- MSc degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering, applied physics or applied mathematics.
- Background and affinity in fluid mechanics (e.g. MSc thesis on a fluids‑related topic).
- Good track record in BSc and MSc degrees.
- Proficiency in the English language, both oral and written.
- Strong motivation towards pursuing a PhD and willingness to develop diverse skills.
- Enthusiastic about working in an energetic team and in close collaboration with other researchers.
The following skills are also highly appreciated:
- Affinity with flow stability and transition theory and modelling
- Experience with adjoint flow solvers and optimisation
- Experience with high‑fidelity numerical simulations
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 EngineeringThe 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 employmentDoctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1.5‑year contract with an official go/no‑go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2.5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.
Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from €3,059 - €3,881 gross per month, from the first year to the fourth year based on a full‑time contract (38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end‑of‑year bonus of 8.3%.
As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline‑related and research skills.
The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.
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 informationIf you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Prof. Marios Kotsonis, via m.kotsonis@tudelft.nl or .
Application procedureAre you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 8 Mar 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:
- Motivational letter (1 page maximum)
- Detailed CV
- BSc and MSc Transcripts
- An extract of a scientific document you wrote in English (e.g. An article or your MSc thesis)
- Names and contacts information of at least two references (support letters not needed)
Screening of the applications will be performed on a rolling basis and suitable candidates will be invited for an interview. You can address your application to Prof. Marios Kotsonis.
Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English‑taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.
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.
€3059 - €3881 monthly