Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Experimental Hypersonics
Explore cutting-edge hypersonic flow physics and experimental techniques in Oxford’s world-leading facilities.
Best for:Best for postdoctoral researchers with hands-on experience in high-speed wind tunnels, optical diagnostics, and experimental fluid dynamics who seek to advance hypersonic aerodynamics research.
Overview
This postdoctoral position at the University of Oxford’s Department of Engineering focuses on advancing experimental hypersonics research. The successful candidate will conduct high-speed flow experiments in Oxford’s facilities and international partners’ labs, investigating non-equilibrium thermochemistry, radiation, convective heating, and boundary layer combustion. The role involves designing and executing complex test campaigns, analyzing experimental data, and disseminating findings through publications and conferences. Additionally, the holder will contribute to wind tunnel infrastructure development, mentor junior researchers, and collaborate with international collaborators and funders. Some autonomy to pursue independent research is encouraged, subject to funding availability.
What you'll do
- Conduct experiments in Oxford’s hypersonic facilities and international collaborators’ labs to study non-equilibrium thermochemistry, radiation, and convective heating.
- Design and execute sophisticated test campaigns, including planning and running experiments in high-speed and high-enthalpy wind tunnels.
- Analyze complex experimental datasets to advance understanding of material-flow interactions and heat flux augmentation.
- Disseminate research findings through seminars, peer-reviewed publications, and international conferences.
- Collaborate with international partners and funders to discuss results and contribute to research funding proposals.
- Develop and maintain wind tunnel infrastructure, ensuring its continued functionality and improvement.
- Provide guidance and mentorship to junior researchers, including research assistants and PhD students.
- Explore independent research pursuits, subject to available funding and project progress.
Requirements
Degree required: PhD/DPhil in a relevant discipline (e.g., Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics) or near completion with thesis submitted.
Language: English; proficiency sufficient for academic research and communication
Instruction: English
Publications: Experience contributing to peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations is essential.
- Practical expertise in operating high-speed or high-enthalpy wind tunnels, impulse facilities, or related experimental setups.
- Strong understanding of analyzing and interpreting complex experimental datasets in fluid dynamics.
- Experience in designing and executing sophisticated fluid experiments, including optical diagnostic techniques.
- Proven ability to manage independent research programs while balancing multiple priorities.
- Experience contributing to peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills for preparing publications, presentations, and stakeholder meetings.
- No explicit nationality or residency restrictions mentioned.
- Applicants near completion of their PhD (thesis submitted) are considered.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-16
Applicants must apply through the University of Oxford’s official recruitment portal. Further details and the application form are available via the provided link. Informal enquiries can be directed to Professor Matthew McGilvray via email.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Research statement or proposal (if applicable)
- Transcripts of academic qualifications
- Contact details for two referees
Contact
Matthew McGilvray· Professor
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