Join the Space Systems Engineering group at TU Delft and contribute to a critical space mission in The Netherlands!
Job description
We are opening a 2 year Postdoctoral researcher position in collaboration with the Dutch high-tech industry to advance full lifecycle digital mission engineering and actively contribute to critical space missions and advance future space instrumentation.
The position will require you to closely work with Axient Systems B.V. And contribute to the validation of an innovative hybrid satellite digital twin, the Titan Forge, which includes hardware and software components emulating the behaviour of the complete mission. This can speed-up the development of new components for SmallSat missions, facilitate the integration of complex hardware and test the complete mission in all development phases.
You will have a key role in the validation and verification campaign for Titan Forge, a facility where satellite hardware components are mixed with emulated systems, radically changing the way space missions are tested. You will develop a methodology for validating hybrid digital twins where end-to-end simulations feed real hardware and allow to put future satellite operators to the test to ensure the mission is meeting all its targets. You will be involved in the final pre-launch validation phases of a key Dutch space mission but in the continuation of the project you will also be involved in the early integration phases for three new scientific instruments developed at TU Delft, which can detect life signs in outer space, enable autonomous navigation and space traffic management and monitor in real-time space weather. These instruments provide challenging requirements to platform integration, demonstrating Titan Forge is a paradigm-shift in mission development for both early and late development and validation phases.
You will work on premises, both at TU Delft and at Axient Systems, and will be deeply integrated in both teams with a first year predominantly spent at Axient Systems and the second period mostly at TU Delft premises, both located in Delft.
Job requirements
We look forward to dynamic candidates that want to get their hands onto a real mission and bring a contribution to society. You also have:
- A PhD in engineering (computer science, aerospace engineering, electronics or related fields)
- You have an aerospace background, have already worked in the sector and familiar with space systems design and validation
- You have an affinity with hardware (for example instruments control)
- You have proven experience in Python development
- You have experience in software development and validation, especially complex simulation software
- Ideally, you have direct experience in space mission and are familiar with space standards (such as ECSS)
TU Delft
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.
Additional information
If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Stefano Speretta, via s.speretta@tudelft.nl.
Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 19 April 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:
- Recent CV
- Motivational letter explaining how your experience matches the requirements for this position (max 2 pg)
You can address your application to Stefano Speretta.
Please note:
- You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
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