Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Experimental Hypersonics Part-time NEW

Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Experimental Hypersonics

Department of Engineering Science, The Oxford Thermofluids Institute, Southwell Building, Osney Mead, Oxford, OX2 0ES

About the role:

We are looking for three Postdoctoral Research Assistants in Experimental Hypersonics. The role for the successful applicants will be to undertake experiments in the hypersonic facilities at the University of Oxford and in international facilities. This will involve the exploration of non-equilibrium thermochemistry, radiation and convective heating for Earth and other planets (Neptune, Martian) entry; heat flux augmentation from non-conformal surfaces; supersonic boundary layer combustion. These will involve the application of both existing and new experimental techniques. You'll plan and run test campaigns, analyse data to advance understanding of material–flow interaction, and disseminate results in seminars, journals, and international conferences. The role will require discussion of results with both international collaborators and funders. Additionally, the candidate will have some freedom and time to explore their own pursuits, research funding permitting. Involvement in other ongoing research programs is also possible, based on the progress in the main project. The candidate will be expected to perform additional engineering tasks to ensure the development of wind tunnel infrastructure. The post holder provides guidance to junior members of the research group including research assistants, PhD students, and/or project volunteers.

About you:

You will hold a PhD/DPhil in a relevant discipline, or be near completion with your thesis submitted, and have experience relevant to the research area. You will bring practical expertise in the operation of high-speed or high-enthalpy wind tunnels, impulse facilities, or related experimental facilities, together with a strong understanding of the analysis and interpretation of complex experimental datasets. The successful candidates will have demonstrated excellence in experimental fluid dynamics, including the design and execution of sophisticated fluid experiments and the application of advanced data analysis techniques. You will possess well-developed skills in experimental and component design, along with experience in the development and application of optical diagnostic techniques for fluid flow measurement and characterisation. You will be capable of managing your own research programme and associated activities, balancing multiple priorities while delivering high-quality outcomes. Experience contributing to peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations is essential, as is the ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly and effectively to a range of audiences. We are looking for candidates who can contribute creatively to the development of new research ideas, support the preparation of research funding proposals, and play an active role in the continued growth of the research programme. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, including the ability to prepare publications, present research findings and proposals, and represent the research group in meetings with collaborators, stakeholders, and the wider research community. This would suit independent, collaborative, and highly motivated researchers who are passionate about experimental aerodynamics and advancing world-leading research in high-speed flow physics.

What we offer:

At the University of Oxford your happiness and wellbeing at work is important to us. We have a number of generous benefits including 38 days' annual leave (inclusive of bank holidays and fixed closure days), generous pension schemes and free access to the Oxford colleges. The other benefits include:

• Travel – We have several travel schemes available for staff which promote sustainable modes of transport.
• Family friendly benefits – We aim to be a family-friendly employer and offer a range of flexible working options. We have some of the most generous family leave provision in the Higher Education sector.
• Sports – We have several schemes to help you stay fit and healthy, including discounted membership of the university sports centre on the Iffley Road.
• Personal and professional development – We actively encourage all staff to participate in planning their personal and professional development and provide a broad range of opportunities to enable them to reach their full potential.
• University club – All staff are entitled to free membership of the University Club. It offers social and hospitality facilities, a small gym and exercise classes.
• Staff discounts – University staff can access shopping discounts in several ways; by purchasing a TOTUM card, by showing an employee pass in selected local stores, or online by using any of the listed discount codes.
• Childcare services – We offer excellent childcare services including five University nurseries as well as University-supported places at other local private nurseries.

How to apply:

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online via our e-recruitment system and should include the covering letter/supporting statement (describing how you meet the criteria), a CV, and names of two academic references. The position is an 18-month fixed term post. The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on 16 October 2026. Informal enquiries may be addressed to Professor Matthew McGilvray: matthew.mcgilvray@eng.ox.ac.uk. Further information can be found at https://eng.ox.ac.uk/jobs. Applications are particularly welcome from women and black and minority ethnic candidates who are under-represented in academic posts in Oxford. The Department is committed to equality and valuing diversity and holds an Athena Swan Bronze award, highlighting its commitment to promoting gender equality in academia. The University is a Living Wage Employer, holds an Athena Swan Silver Award, an HR Excellence in Research and a Race Equality Charter Bronze Award and is a Stonewall Diversity Champion. Our staff and students come from all over the world, and we seek to create a friendly and inclusive culture. Diversity is positively encouraged, through our EDI Committee, working groups and networks, for example eng.ox.ac.uk/women-in-engineering, as well as a number of family friendly policies.