Associate Professor in Experimental Aerodynamics

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As an Associate Professor, you will take scientific leadership in experimental aerodynamics, preferably including aeroacoustics, and further strengthen the wind-tunnel-based research line within TFE, including the transition towards new experimental infrastructure. You will play a key role in strengthening our wind-tunnel-based research and research infrastructure, and in shaping the future vision for experimental aerodynamic and aeronautics research within TFE. You will contribute to fostering a link between experimental and theoretical (CFD) research. You will establish and lead a research team, working closely with your colleagues. You will actively acquire and carry out research projects with academic and industrial partners, supervise PhD candidates, MSc students and junior staff. You will contribute to teaching courses and projects in the BSc and MSc programmes, particularly regarding the experimental fluid dynamics and aerodynamics aspects, thereby contributing to the education of the engineers of the future.

You have:

• A PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a closely related field;
• A strong background in experimental fluid dynamics, preferably including wind tunnel testing, aerodynamic measurements, and/or aeroacoustics;
• A proven research record, evidenced by high-quality publications;
• Proven experience in obtaining external research funding and leading research projects;
• Experience in supervising PhD candidates and mentoring junior researchers;
• A strong affinity for teaching, with the ability to inspire and empower students in both BSc and MSc programmes, and a genuine commitment to fostering an inclusive learning environment in which students can reach their full potential;
• Excellent communication skills in English (knowledge of Dutch or willingness to learn Dutch is an advantage);
• Demonstrated academic leadership skills, with the ability to build and lead a research team and to contribute to the strategic development of experimental facilities;
• A University Teaching Qualification (UTQ), or the willingness to obtain this within two years.

• We offer a full-time permanent position (1.0 FTE) at the level of Associate Professor (UHD), within the Dutch Collective Labour Agreement for Universities (CAO-NU).
• Gross monthly salary between € 6.512,- and € 8.673,- depending on experience;
• 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus;
• Excellent facilities for research, professional, and personal development;
• Free access to sports facilities on campus;
• The University of Twente is a family-friendly organisation that supports work–life balance and offers parental leave (both paid and unpaid).

Please submit your application before March 23, including:

• A motivation letter outlining your vision for wind-tunnel-based research within TFE;
• A detailed CV;
• A list of publications including your role in the research presented there;
• A concise statement on your teaching philosophy and research ambitions;
• Names and contact details of three references.

The Department of Thermal and Fluid Engineering (TFE) combines fundamental and applied research in fluid dynamics and heat transfer with strong involvement in Bachelor’s and Master’s education in Mechanical Engineering and Aeronautics. More information about the department can be found on our website [link].

Within TFE, the Engineering Fluid Dynamics (EFD) chair focuses on aeronautics, including experimental, numerical, and theoretical research in aerodynamics and aeroacoustics, as well as analysis and design for specific applications related to aircraft, wind turbines, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and aerodynamics inspired by nature.

Your research will address key challenges in aeronautics, such as noise reduction, efficiency improvement, and the development of novel air transport concepts, including Urban Air Mobility and UAV applications.

Our research benefits from excellent experimental facilities, including an anechoic wind tunnel, with up-to-date PIV/PTV/CTA measurement systems for flow field visualisation and quantification, and a supersonic wind tunnel. In addition, EFD is investing in the development of a new wind tunnel facility, expected to become operational within the coming years. As Associate Professor, you will play a key role in shaping the research agenda and experimental programme around this new facility, thereby strengthening the long-term vision for experimental fluid mechanics within the department. You will work closely with leading international and national research institutes and industrial partners.

The Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) engages in education and research of Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering. We enable society and industry to innovate and create value using efficient, solid and sustainable technology. We are part of a ‘people-first' university of technology, taking our place as an internationally leading center for smart production, processes and devices in five domains: Health Technology, Maintenance, Smart Regions, Smart Industry and Sustainable Resources. Our faculty is home to about 2,900 Bachelor's and Master's students, 550 employees and 150 PhD candidates. Our educational and research programmes are closely connected with UT research institutesMesa+ Institute, TechMed Center and Digital Society Institute.

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Published

2026-02-20