"Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Distributed Propulsion Aerodynamics"

Based in the College of Engineering and Information Technology, Adelaide City Campus East

Full time fixed term position available for 2.5 years

Salary range: $81,293 - $109,307 per annum (plus 17% superannuation)

At Adelaide University, we create the opportunities you need to achieve your ambitions – because when you thrive, we thrive.

We are transforming education for contemporary learners and global citizens. Building on a proud legacy and shaped by bold ambition, it’s a place of excellence and equity, where our vibrant community of staff are united by our purpose to inspire Australia’s future change-makers and create a better tomorrow.

Work that matters

In this role, you will contribute to advancing new knowledge and fundamental understanding of how distributed propulsion systems influence aircraft aerodynamics and control. This will be achieved through a systematic analysis supported by a comprehensive experimental campaign conducted in the large-scale wind tunnel at Adelaide University’s Thebarton campus, in collaboration with the project partner, Blue Spirit Aero (https://bluespiritaero.com/). The outcomes of the project will inform the design of next-generation aircraft, particularly hybrid and electric aeroplanes.

The team

The project team will include the academics with the expertise in aircraft design, control and aerodynamics from the School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering. The team will also include PhD and Honours students, and the project will be supported by the University technical staff and facilities.

Our College of Engineering and Information Technology brings together expertise across aviation, computer science, construction management, and the full spectrum of 21st-century engineering disciplines including civil, mechanical, electrical, chemical, environmental, and biomedical engineering.

Visit the AU website to learn more about the College of Engineering and Information Technology.

Our people

Our people are guided by purpose, curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. We embrace authenticity, innovation and collaboration, and harness diverse thinking in our pursuit of excellence.

This role suits someone who enjoys working in a dynamic environment with a variety of tasks to complete and enjoys working in multidisciplinary teams to maximise our collective achievements. You’ll engage with colleagues, students, and industry partners, receiving and delivering research contributions across teams.

Learn more about our people, what we stand for and what we offer at Careers at AU.

Experience

To join our community and thrive in this role, you will likely have the following skills and experience:

Qualifications:

• PhD or equivalent degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering, or a related discipline.

Essential:

• Demonstrated experience in conducting wind tunnel experiments, including design and manufacture of the models, measurement of the forces and flow diagnostics.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research in addition to working effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team.
• Experience in communicating effectively with professional and industry bodies, government, project partners, and members of the community.
• Experience in leading research projects that have required organisational and time management skills, including experience to follow an agreed project plan and meet realistic milestones.
• Commitment to the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion, and ability to contribute to the diversity of the university community.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion where diversity is celebrated and everyone feels respected and valued. Adelaide University is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone can thrive. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and people of all ages, genders, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities. We are committed to supporting flexible working arrangements and providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.

Launch your future with Adelaide University now

Applying is simple. Simply click on the Apply Now button and upload:

• your current CV
• a cover letter that tells us why you’re excited about the role

The online application form will list the specific selection criteria that you need to address.

Submit your application by 11:30pm Thursday 9 April 2026

Please note that the role description is not attached to this advertisement as it is currently being finalised.

The University reserves the right to close this advertisement before the closing date if a suitable candidate is identified.