Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Experimental Hypersonics

University of Oxford - Department of Engineering Science

About the role

We are seeking a full-time Postdoctoral Research Assistant to join the Hypersonics research group at the Department of Engineering Science, Osney. The post is fixed for 19 months with potential further extension, subject to confirmed funding.

You will lead experiments in the OPG arc-jet/plasma wind tunnel, developing and commissioning facility upgrades (higher-power operation, new nozzles/test articles), intrusive probes, and optical diagnostics. 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 is collaborative: you’ll work closely with our partners at Keimyung University (Korea) and travel regularly for joint test campaigns.

About you

You should hold a relevant PhD/DPhil (or be near completion) with experience in high-speed/high-enthalpy wind tunnels. You should have a strong publication record and familiarity with existing literature in hypersonic/high-enthalpy ground testing. Applicants should have expertise in undertaking and analysing experiments in high-speed/high-enthalpy wind tunnels. The applicant should have the ability to independently plan and manage experimental test campaigns. You should be motivated to work in a dynamic environment, have the ability to self-manage, and be driven to support research within the wider group, liaising with external sponsors and collaborators as required. You will be expected to travel regularly to this project’s partner institution, Keimyung University, Korea.

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 a full-time fixed term post available for 19 months.

The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on Friday 07 November 2025.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Associate Professor Tobias Hermann: tobias.hermann@eng.ox.ac.uk

Further information can be found at www.eng.ox.ac.uk/about/work-with-us/