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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct hands-on experimental research in transonic aerodynamics and collaborate with top universities.
- Company: Join a leading research-intensive School of Engineering and Materials Science in the UK.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension, 30 days leave, and flexible working arrangements.
- Other info: Dynamic interdisciplinary environment with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in aerospace research while working with advanced technologies and experts.
- Qualifications: PhD in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering with experience in high-speed aerodynamics.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 ÂŁ per year.
Position Overview
The Postdoctoral Research Associate in Experimental Transonic Aerodynamics will support a 20‑month programme investigating the onset and characteristics of transonic shock buffet on laminar‑flow aircraft wings. Funded by the Royal Society International Collaboration Award and delivered in partnership with Nagoya University, the role is highly hands‑on in the Whitehead Aeronautical Laboratory and involves experimental research, analysis, dissemination, and collaboration across the project team.
Responsibilities and Qualifications
- You should hold, or be close to completing, a PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline, with a strong background in high‑speed or compressible aerodynamics.
- A good understanding of transonic flow physics and/or experimental aerodynamics is essential.
- Experience in wind‑tunnel testing at high speed, including experimental design, set‑up and execution, is required.
- Experience with advanced instrumentation, flow‑visualisation techniques or unsteady aerodynamic measurements, and the ability to analyse aerodynamic data and link results to underlying flow physics would be advantageous.
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, a record of high‑quality research outputs, and proficiency in scientific programming are required.
- Familiarity with data‑acquisition or signal‑processing techniques is desirable.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills are essential.
- The role involves collaboration with colleagues at Queen Mary University of London, Nagoya University and JAXA.
- The candidate should be able to work independently, manage time effectively and contribute positively to a collaborative research environment.
Institutional Context
The postholder will be based in the Whitehead Aeronautics Laboratory, a facility with advanced optical diagnostics and an upgraded blow‑down wind tunnel, providing an excellent platform for high‑speed and unsteady aerodynamics research. The School of Engineering and Materials Science (SEMS) is a research‑intensive School ranked 7th overall in the UK for research excellence, offering a dynamic interdisciplinary environment.
Benefits and Working Conditions
The position offers a competitive salary, access to a generous pension scheme and 30 days leave per annum (pro‑rated for part‑time/fixed‑term). Flexible working arrangements, family‑friendly policies and a comprehensive range of personal and professional development opportunities are available. Reasonable adjustments will be made at each stage of the recruitment process for candidates with a disability.
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Experimental Transonic/High-Speed Aerodynamics employer: Queen Mary University of London
Contact Detail:
Queen Mary University of London Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate in Experimental Transonic/High-Speed Aerodynamics
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the aerospace field, attend relevant conferences, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the latest trends in transonic aerodynamics and be ready to discuss your past projects. We recommend practising common interview questions with a friend or mentor to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your hands-on experience! When discussing your background, highlight any wind-tunnel testing or experimental design work you've done. We want to see how your skills align with the practical aspects of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate in Experimental Transonic/High-Speed Aerodynamics
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in high-speed aerodynamics and any relevant research projects. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your skills!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about transonic aerodynamics and how your expertise can contribute to our project. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your enthusiasm!
Showcase Your Research Experience: In your application, emphasise any hands-on experience you have with wind-tunnel testing or experimental design. We’re looking for candidates who can hit the ground running, so make sure to highlight your practical skills!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Queen Mary University of London
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on transonic flow physics and experimental aerodynamics. Be ready to discuss your PhD research and how it relates to the role. Highlight any specific experiences with wind-tunnel testing and advanced instrumentation.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your analytical and problem-solving skills. Think of examples where you've tackled complex aerodynamic challenges, and be ready to explain your thought process and the outcomes.
✨Team Player Vibes
Since collaboration is key in this role, think of instances where you've worked effectively in a team. Be prepared to share how you communicate and contribute positively to group projects, especially in a research setting.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Come armed with insightful questions about the project and the team dynamics. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you. Consider asking about the specific challenges the team faces in high-speed aerodynamics research.