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- Tasks: Conduct cutting-edge research in icing science and experimental aerothermal engineering.
- Company: Join Cranfield University, a leader in aerospace engineering and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in aerospace research with unique facilities and industry partnerships.
- Qualifications: PhD or nearing completion in aerospace or mechanical engineering, with strong research skills.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with excellent career development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 37897 - 45580 £ per year.
The Centre for Propulsion Engineering within the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Sciences is looking to expand its internationally renowned activities with the recruitment of a full-time Research Fellow in Icing Science and Experimental Aerothermal Engineering.
About the Role
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. In addition, the team works closely with a substantial number of 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 and providing support on experimental test campaigns. This will include assisting with tunnel and model instrumentation, data post-processing, analysis and management for experimental projects conducted in the Icing Wind Tunnel. The role will also include the dissemination of research through publication in high-quality journals and leading conferences. The successful candidate will, if possible, develop or adopt numerical simulation models and methods pertinent to icing science and engineering, and develop an individual research strategy and profile in icing science and engineering.
About You
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).
About Us
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 and includes the internationally recognised Thermal Power and Propulsion MSc course. The activities within the Centre encompass a very wide range of topics, including gas turbine performance modelling, propulsion aerodynamics, icing, combustion, computational fluid dynamics, advanced instrumentation, turbomachinery and thermal management. The Centre is also host to the Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre for Aero System Design, Integration & Performance, testimony of the Centre’s global visibility and extensive links with industry.
Our Values and Commitments
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. We are committed to actively exploring flexible working options for each role and have been ranked in the Top 30 family friendly employers in the UK by the charity Working Families.
Working Arrangements
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.
How to apply
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. Closing date for receipt of applications: 22 March 2026.
Research Fellow in Icing Science and Experimental Aerothermal Engineering employer: Euraxess
Contact Detail:
Euraxess Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow in Icing Science and Experimental Aerothermal Engineering
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Cranfield University on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the role and the team, plus it shows our genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into icing science and experimental aerothermal engineering. Brush up on recent research and be ready to discuss how our skills align with the projects at Cranfield.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase our passion for research! During interviews, share specific examples of past projects or publications that relate to icing science. This will help us stand out as candidates who are not just qualified but truly enthusiastic.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, we can tailor our submission to highlight how we fit the unique culture and values at Cranfield.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow in Icing Science and Experimental Aerothermal Engineering
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Fellow role. Highlight your PhD work, relevant publications, and any experience in icing science or experimental aerothermal engineering. We want to see how your background fits with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about icing science and how your skills align with the role. Be sure to mention any specific projects or experiences that showcase your expertise. This is your chance to shine!
Showcase Your Research Experience: In your application, emphasise your research experience, especially any experimental work you've done. We love candidates who can demonstrate their ability to conduct experiments and analyse data, so don't hold back on the details!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Euraxess
✨Know Your Icing Science
Make sure you brush up on the latest research and developments in icing science and aerothermal engineering. Familiarise yourself with key concepts, recent publications, and any relevant experimental techniques that might come up during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experimental Skills
Prepare to discuss your hands-on experience with experimental testing, particularly in aerodynamics or related fields. Be ready to share specific examples of past projects where you conducted experiments, managed data, or worked with instrumentation.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice summarising your research objectives and achievements in a clear and concise manner. The ability to communicate complex technical information effectively is crucial, so consider doing mock interviews with friends or colleagues to refine your delivery.
✨Engage with Their Research
Take the time to understand Cranfield University's ongoing projects and partnerships, especially those related to icing science. Showing genuine interest in their work and how you can contribute will demonstrate your enthusiasm and fit for the role.