Postdoc in Sustainable Design of Aircraft Luggage Bins and Circular Aerospace Components Delft University of Technology in Netherlands

Postdoc opportunity at Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) in the Faculty of Industrial Design Engineering, focused on sustainable design, circular design, life cycle assessment, aerospace engineering, and thermoplastic composites.

The project develops circular design principles and methods for an innovative, lightweight, biobased door for aerospace overhead stowage compartments (aircraft luggage bins). The door is used as a demonstrator for broader application of thermoplastic composites in cabin components, with the goal of reducing fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions while improving maintenance, reuse, and recycling.

The postdoc will investigate and advance methods for circular product design, prospective LCA, and supply chain modelling. The work includes mapping product lifecycle(s), developing circular design strategies, performing prospective LCAs, and designing circular supply chain concepts. The role is embedded in a multidisciplinary consortium with industrial partners, researchers, and educators, and includes collaboration on assembly, disassembly, repairability, and user experience in an operational environment.

Eligibility highlights: a PhD in design engineering, industrial ecology, aerospace engineering, or a related field; experience in research projects with internal/external partners; experience with prospective lifecycle assessment; affinity with circular and sustainable product design; and English proficiency. Helpful experience includes design/prototyping/testing of tangible products, thermoplastic composite materials, and student supervision.

Funding/conditions: 2-year temporary external finance, 36–40 hours per week, salary and benefits according to the Dutch universities collective agreement, plus pension, flexible working, and other employment benefits.

Deadline: 8 May 2026. Apply online through AcademicTransfer and upload a CV, motivational letter, and a recent publication and/or prototype relevant to the topic.