Help shape a more sustainable aviation sector by advancing research that takes responsibility for the full life cycle of structures of non-fossil-fuel aircraft.

The position offers the opportunity to develop a research line in life cycle design of aeronautical structures that use non-fossil fuel energy carriers. Rather than concentrating on performance alone, environmental impact, circularity, maintainability and end-of-life strategies are treated as integral design considerations. Close collaboration with colleagues from different disciplines ensures that sustainability and life cycle aspects are embedded in early design decisions. This work contributes directly to the broader transition towards future-ready aviation based on hydrogen and/or electricity.

Within the Academic Career Track framework, structured support is provided for developing the research agenda, acquiring funding and building an academic profile. Clear expectations, mentoring and regular feedback are key elements, with explicit attention to sustainable career development.

The role also involves contributing to and further developing BSc and MSc education centred on life cycle design, sustainable structural engineering, and aircraft design for non-fossil-fuel energy carriers. The teaching style emphasises holistic thinking, critical reflection and confidence-building in future engineers. Inclusive, coaching-oriented education is central, with a learning environment in which students feel supported, respected and encouraged to engage. Diversity in perspectives, backgrounds and learning styles is naturally integrated into teaching practice.

Supervision of students and early-career researchers forms an important part of the role, with attention to both academic development and well-being. In addition, the position includes building and maintaining an international, multidisciplinary network with leading academic, research centre and industrial partners, more specifically experts in structural mechanics, materials science, energy systems, sustainability, and design methodologies. This network empowers you to lead or participate in multidisciplinary research project consortia. Collaboration, shared learning and long-term relationships are central.

Within the department, the role is embedded in an open and supportive community that values collegiality, teamwork and mutual respect. TU Delft offers a stimulating academic environment with strong attention to mentoring, work–life balance and personal development, embedded in the Academic Career Track and supported by career coaching.

Job requirements:
• You hold a PhD in Aerospace Engineering specifically.
• You have experience in aeronautical structural design. You have a holistic view on the airframe of the entire aircraft. Furthermore, you have also experience in or affinity with sustainability and/or life cycle thinking; you are not expected to be an expert in both areas from the outset.
• You are motivated to develop a research profile with clear societal relevance, supported by collaboration and mentoring.
• You enjoy teaching and supervising students and value an inclusive, supportive and coaching approach.
• You like working together with colleagues in multidisciplinary teams and contributing to a positive academic culture.
• You communicate effectively in English; willingness to learn Dutch is appreciated and supported.

If you feel motivated by this role but do not meet every requirement, we warmly encourage you to apply. We recognize that academic careers develop in different ways, and we value potential, curiosity and commitment alongside experience.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology) is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration. Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty Aerospace Engineering:
The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is a leading international community where innovation in aerospace meets global challenges. Our support and scientific staff, including PhD candidates, postdocs, and students, largely work together on three main themes: the energy transition, sustainable aerospace, and safety and security, with the aim of tackling climate change and contributing to the independence and security of Europe. When you join us, you become part of a diverse, collaborative, and forward-thinking environment where your ideas and perspectives are valued. Our work extends beyond the lab—into field labs, innovation hubs, and partnerships with other faculties, research institutes, governments, and industry, both locally and globally. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming workplace, assisted by an active Diversity & Inclusion team. This includes tangible support such as funding for extra personnel for family and caregiving responsibilities, mentoring programmes, and initiatives that promote cultural exchange and integration. You don’t just join our faculty — you join a community where you can thrive, grow, and help shape the future of aerospace.

Conditions of employment:
This position is offered as an Academic Career Track position (0.8 – 1.0 FTE). During the Academic Career Track, we expect you to grow towards an Associate Professor position within a maximum of eight years, for which a position will be available. With other Academic Career Track colleagues, you will participate in the Academic Career Track Development programme, where you are offered ample opportunities to develop yourself in the areas of Education, Research, Societal Impact & Innovation, and Leadership & Organisation. You will regularly discuss your development and results with senior staff based on a personalized development plan and performance criteria agreed upon at the start of your Academic Career Track. Inspiring, excellent education is our central aim. We expect you to obtain a University Teaching Qualification (UTQ) within three years if you have less than five years of teaching experience. This is provided by the TU Delft UTQ programme as part of the Academic Career Track Development programme. TU Delft sets high standards for the English competency of the teaching staff. The TU Delft offers training to improve English competency. If you do not speak Dutch, we offer courses to learn the Dutch language within three years.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged and you can work partly from home.

Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, provides information and personal one-on-one guidance to help you prepare your relocation, and to find housing and schools for children (if applicable). In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.

Additional information:
If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact [see original application].

Application procedure:
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 1 March 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:
• CV
• Motivational letter

You can address your application to [see original application].

Please note:
• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• As part of knowledge security, TU Delft conducts a risk assessment during the recruitment of personnel. We do this, among other things, to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology. The assessment is based on information provided by the candidates themselves, such as their motivation letter and CV, and takes place at the final stages of the selection process. When the outcome of the assessment is negative, the candidate will be informed. The processing of personal data in the context of the risk assessment is carried out on the legal basis of the GDPR: performing a public task in the public interest. You can find more information about this assessment on our website about knowledge security.
• Applying for an exemption for specific research and educational areas is an obligatory part of the selection procedure for this vacancy. This exemption must be obtained from the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science (OCW) before an employment contract is agreed upon. Click here for more information.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.

Assistant Professor in Life Cycle Design of Aeronautical Structures

TU Delft