Postdoctoral Fellow in Experimental Combustion Studies for Future Fuels Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Norway

NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology is advertising a 3-year full-time Postdoctoral Fellow in Experimental Combustion Studies for Future Fuels at the Department of Energy and Process Engineering in Trondheim, Norway.

The position is aimed at highly motivated researchers interested in experimental combustion, sustainable engine technologies, and the behavior of emerging low-carbon fuels under realistic engine-relevant conditions. The project uses a specially modified research engine and a single-cylinder optical combustion chamber to study ignition dynamics, flame propagation, pollutant formation pathways, fuel spray behavior, mixing, combustion stability, and efficiency limits.

The work will make extensive use of advanced optical diagnostics, including near- and far-field high-speed microscopic imaging, chemiluminescence-based methods, Schlieren imaging, and shadowgraphy. The successful candidate will contribute to high-resolution studies of fuel-air mixing, spray breakup, heat release, soot formation, and in-cylinder flow structures.

The research focuses on future fuels such as e-fuels, advanced biofuels, hydrogen carriers, and ammonia-based blends. The postdoctoral fellow will be an active member of the ComKin research group and the departmental Thermal Fluids Research group, contribute to academic publications and dissemination, participate in conferences and international research stays, and may also take part in occasional teaching and student mentoring.

Eligibility highlights: a completed PhD in mechanical or marine engineering is required, though candidates in the final phase of the doctorate may be considered if they can document submission status or a confirmed defense date. Applicants should have strong English communication skills, a solid background in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and combustion, experience with laboratory and experimental work and risk assessment, familiarity with optical measurement techniques, and programming/data analysis skills in Python, MATLAB, or LabVIEW. Experience with Schlieren and high-speed imaging is especially valued.

Funding and conditions: the appointment is paid as a Postdoctoral Fellow (code 1352) from gross NOK 604,900 per year before tax, with 2% pension contribution deducted from salary. The position lasts 3 years and is based in Trondheim.

Application window: the deadline is 28 August 2026 at 23:59 (Europe/Oslo). Applications must be submitted electronically via Jobbnorge.no and include transcripts and diplomas, thesis material, publications or other academic work, reference letters if available, and the names/contact details of three referees.

For questions about the position, contact Professor Terese Løvås at [email protected]. For recruitment questions, contact HR consultant Lydia Lamminen at [email protected].