Delft University of Technology
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Postdoctoral Researcher in Aircraft Contrail Observations, Remote Sensing, and Climate-Impact Model Evaluation Delft University of Technology in Netherlands
Degree Level
Postdoc
Field of study
Environmental Science
Funding
This is a one-year, full-time temporary postdoctoral employment contract (38–40 hours per week), funded by external finance. The salary is €3,706–€5,760, with benefits in accordance with the Dutch Collective Labour Agreement, including an ABP pension scheme, flexible working arrangements, leave entitlement, partially paid parental leave, training opportunities, and other employment benefits.
Deadline
Dec 1, 2026
Country
Netherlands
University
Delft University of Technology
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About this position
Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to study observations of aircraft contrails and improve models that predict their persistence and climate impact. The project supports contrail avoidance strategies aimed at reducing aviation’s contribution to climate change.
The researcher will combine observations from ground-based imagery, LIDAR measurements, and satellite imagery to create high-quality datasets for evaluating and improving contrail prediction models. The work is based in the Operations and Environment section of TU Delft’s Faculty of Aerospace Engineering, with collaboration involving Dr. Vincent Meijer, PhD candidates, and MSc students.
Applicants should hold a PhD in atmospheric science, remote sensing, aerospace engineering, physics, or a related field. Strong Python programming and data-analysis skills, experience with atmospheric observations, remote sensing or numerical modelling, large multi-source datasets, uncertainty analysis, and model evaluation are expected. Experience with contrails, cloud physics, or machine learning is an advantage.
This is a one-year, full-time temporary position funded through external finance. The salary is €3,706–€5,760, with Dutch employment benefits including pension, flexible working arrangements, leave, parental leave, and professional-development opportunities. Applications must be submitted online by 1 December 2026 with a CV, motivational letter, and relevant research experience.
Funding details
This is a one-year, full-time temporary postdoctoral employment contract (38–40 hours per week), funded by external finance. The salary is €3,706–€5,760, with benefits in accordance with the Dutch Collective Labour Agreement, including an ABP pension scheme, flexible working arrangements, leave entitlement, partially paid parental leave, training opportunities, and other employment benefits.
What's required
Applicants must hold a PhD in atmospheric science, remote sensing, aerospace engineering, physics, or a closely related field. They should have strong programming and data-analysis skills, preferably in Python; experience with atmospheric observations, remote sensing, and/or numerical modelling; the ability to work with large datasets from multiple sources; an understanding of uncertainty analysis and model evaluation; the ability to conduct independent research and publish scientific results; and good collaboration and communication skills in English. Experience with contrails, cloud physics, or machine learning is advantageous.
How to apply
Apply online through the TU Delft application button by 1 December 2026. Upload a CV, motivational letter, and relevant research experience, and address the application to Vincent Meijer; applications by email or post are not processed.
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Prepare your application
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Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.