PhD Position: University Assistant Prae-Doc in Engineering Design and Product Development (Aircraft Systems, Hydrogen Propulsion) TU Wien in Austria

TU Wien, Austria's largest institution for research and higher education in technology and natural sciences, is offering a PhD position as University Assistant Prae-Doc at the Institute of Engineering Design and Product Development, within the Research Group for Aircraft Systems. The position is limited to four years, with a 30-hour work week, and is expected to start in August 2026. The role is ideal for candidates interested in advancing novel propulsion systems in aviation, particularly those utilizing hydrogen as an energy carrier.

The successful candidate will assist with course delivery, laboratory exercises, and exam preparation, as well as supervise students in seminars, projects, and theses. Research responsibilities include project work on innovative aerospace propulsion systems, contributing to the definition and acquisition of new research projects, forming consortia, drafting proposals, and participating in the design, construction, and development of heat exchanger test benches. The position also involves system control, measurement technology, deepening scientific knowledge, writing a dissertation and publications, and participating in scientific events and networking meetings.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree or equivalent in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field. Essential skills include knowledge of heat transfer and flow analysis for heat exchangers, advanced proficiency in CAD, CFD, MATLAB, Python, and simulation tools for aerospace propulsion systems (such as GT-Lab). Candidates should be able to independently validate simulation results experimentally on a heat exchanger test bench and possess knowledge of measurement technology for flow simulations. Excellent English skills and at least basic written and spoken German are required. The ideal candidate will demonstrate interest in research on novel aerospace propulsion systems, teamwork, problem-solving skills, and innovative thinking.

TU Wien offers a collegial team environment, hybrid working style with up to 60% teleworking, attractive social benefits, and a central workplace location with good accessibility. Entry level salary is determined by pay grade B1 of the Austrian collective agreement for university staff, with a minimum of EUR 2,832.10/month gross, paid 14 times per year for 30 hours/week. Relevant working experience may increase the monthly income. The university is committed to increasing the proportion of women in leadership positions and encourages female applicants and those with special needs to apply.

The application deadline is July 2nd, 2026. For questions, applicants may contact TU Wien or the confidant for disabled persons. Please submit your application online via the provided application link, ensuring all eligibility requirements are met and relevant documents are included.