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- Tasks: Conduct icing experiments and support experimental test campaigns in cutting-edge facilities.
- Company: Cranfield University, a leader in aerospace engineering and research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Join a unique team making impactful contributions to icing science and aerothermal engineering.
- Qualifications: PhD or nearing completion in aerospace or mechanical engineering with strong research skills.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with excellent career growth and industry partnerships.
The predicted salary is between 37897 - 45580 £ per year.
Cranfield University is looking to expand its internationally renowned activities with the recruitment of a full-time Research Fellow in Icing Science and Experimental Aerothermal Engineering.
Within the Centre, the Icing Team undertakes a wide range of activities, including research in ice adhesion, ice properties, instrumentation, as well as ice protection technologies and the impact of ice on aerodynamic components. The team works closely with national and international industrial partners in the aerospace and wind turbine sector. A key aspect of the activity is focused on experimental work with dedicated icing wind tunnel facilities, as well as a vertical droplet tunnel. The team also undertakes research in the area of fundamental modelling with molecular dynamic and ice/substrate interface bonding analysis.
The main aspects of the Research Fellow role include:
- Conducting icing experiments in the Cranfield Icing Wind Tunnel (IWT) facilities.
- Providing support on experimental test campaigns, including assisting with tunnel and model instrumentation, data post-processing, analysis and management for experimental projects conducted in the Icing Wind Tunnel.
- Disseminating research through publication in high-quality journals and leading conferences.
- Developing or adopting numerical simulation models and methods pertinent to icing science and engineering.
- Developing an individual research strategy and profile in icing science and engineering.
You will hold a PhD (or close to completion) in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related subject, with a record of publishing in high-quality journals. Good skills in engineering, with a focus on aerodynamics, along with experimental testing capabilities, are required for this role. A desire to develop a career in icing science, or experience with icing experience, would be considered beneficial. The ability to communicate clearly at a technical level, and the capability to clearly summarise objectives and achievements for briefing colleagues and project partners, is also essential.
Candidates are expected to be confident independent researchers, educated at a PhD level (or close to completion). The successful candidate is also expected to assist with the general programme of work that is conducted in the Centre.
Overall, the icing test facilities and industrial relationships are unique within the UK and offer a fantastic opportunity for research and development across a wide range of technology readiness levels. The position is within the Gas Turbine Technology Group within the Centre for Propulsion and Thermal Power Engineering.
Due to the nature of this role, you will be required to obtain UK Security Clearance (BPSS).
As a specialist postgraduate university, Cranfield’s world-class expertise, large-scale facilities and unrivalled industry partnerships are creating leaders in technology and management globally.
The Centre for Propulsion and Thermal Power Engineering is around 80 staff strong (including visiting academics), and one of the largest research and education activities within the University. The activity spans across land, offshore, marine, air and space power and propulsion applications. Our activity is characterised by a close integration of taught and short-course education and research.
Our shared, stated values help to define who we are and underpin everything we do: Ambition; Impact; Respect; and Community. We aim to create and maintain a culture in which everyone can work and study together and realise their full potential. We are a Disability Confident Employer and proud members of the Stonewall Diversity Champions Programme.
Collaborating and connecting are integral to so much of what we do. Our Working Arrangements Framework provides many staff with the opportunity to flexibly combine on-site and remote working, where job roles allow, balancing the needs of our community of staff, students, clients and partners.
For an informal discussion about this opportunity, please contact Professor David MacManus, Professor of Propulsion Aerodynamics & Installations, on (E): d.g.macmanus@cranfield.ac.uk
Please do not hesitate to contact us for further details on E: peoplerecruitment@cranfield.ac.uk. Please quote reference number 5232.
Closing date for receipt of applications: 22 March 2026.
Research Fellow in Icing Science and Experimental Aerothermal Engineering in Cranfield employer: Cranfield Water
Contact Detail:
Cranfield Water Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow in Icing Science and Experimental Aerothermal Engineering in Cranfield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the aerospace and engineering fields. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential colleagues or mentors. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to icing science and aerothermal engineering. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online platforms. The more comfortable you are discussing your research and experiences, the better you'll shine during the real deal!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your work! Create a portfolio of your research projects, publications, and any experimental work you've done. This will not only demonstrate your expertise but also give you something tangible to discuss during interviews. Plus, it’s a great way to stand out from the crowd!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. So, get your application in and let’s make some waves in icing science together!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow in Icing Science and Experimental Aerothermal Engineering in Cranfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in icing science and aerothermal engineering. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements!
Show Off Your Research Skills: Since this is a research fellow position, it’s crucial to emphasise your research background. Include any publications or projects that demonstrate your expertise in experimental testing and data analysis. We love seeing candidates who can communicate their findings clearly!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to summarise your objectives and achievements. Remember, we’re looking for someone who can communicate effectively at a technical level!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cranfield Water
✨Know Your Icing Science
Make sure you brush up on the latest research and developments in icing science and experimental aerothermal engineering. Be prepared to discuss your own research and how it relates to the work being done at Cranfield University, especially in areas like ice adhesion and properties.
✨Showcase Your Experimental Skills
Since the role involves conducting experiments in the Icing Wind Tunnel, be ready to talk about your hands-on experience with experimental testing. Highlight any relevant projects where you've used instrumentation or data analysis, and be specific about the techniques you've employed.
✨Communicate Clearly
Effective communication is key, especially when summarising objectives and achievements. Practice explaining complex concepts in a straightforward manner, as you'll need to convey your ideas clearly to colleagues and project partners during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Your Research Ambition
Cranfield values ambition and impact, so come prepared with a vision for your research strategy in icing science. Discuss how you plan to contribute to the Centre's goals and your aspirations for publishing in high-quality journals and leading conferences.