PhD in Cryogenic and Dynamic Characterisation of Aerospace Materials Delft University of Technology in Netherlands

TU Delft is advertising a PhD position in Cryogenic and Dynamic Characterisation of Aerospace Materials within the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering in Delft, the Netherlands. The project sits in the Optical Metrology for Aerospace (OMA) and Design of Structures research groups, as part of the Dutch Aviation Systems Analysis Lab (DASAL) collaboration between TU Delft and Royal NLR.

The research focuses on how aerospace materials deform and fail at temperatures approaching 20 K under quasi-static to dynamic loading. A major goal is to develop and validate optical and photonic measurement methods that remain accurate in cryogenic environments with large temperature gradients. Techniques mentioned include digital image correlation, speckle and grid methods, interferometry, digital holography, structured-light and fringe projection, deflectometry, pattern tracking, high-speed imaging, thermography, and fibre Bragg grating sensing.

This PhD is highly relevant to aerospace engineering, materials science, mechanical engineering, and physics, especially for students interested in experimental mechanics, optical metrology, composites, cryogenic testing, and hydrogen aviation. The work aims to support safer hydrogen-powered aircraft structures and contribute to certification by analysis of future composite structures.

Applicants should have an MSc in optical engineering, photonics, aerospace or mechanical engineering, applied physics, materials science, experimental mechanics, instrumentation, or a related field. Strong hands-on experience with experimental setups, measurement systems, optical methods, mechanical testing, or laboratory instrumentation is expected. Experience with full-field optical methods, image processing, high-speed imaging, cryogenic testing, composites, numerical modelling, or non-destructive testing is an advantage. Good English, independence, teamwork, and communication skills are required.

The position is a 4-year doctoral employment with an initial 1.5-year contract followed by a 2.5-year extension subject to a go/no-go assessment. Salary ranges from €3204 to €4051 gross per month, plus holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus. TU Delft also mentions health-insurance discounts and a work costs contribution.

Supervision is by Dr Andrei Anisimov and Dr Saullo Castro. The application deadline is 16 September 2026. Candidates must apply online and upload a motivation letter, CV, and copies of BSc and MSc degrees and transcripts. The motivation letter should explain the main challenges expected in characterising deformation and damage under cryogenic conditions using optical measurement techniques.