Research Fellow

University of Southampton - Institute of Sound & Vibration Research

Placed On: 24th February 2026

Closes: 16th March 2026

Job Ref: 3348626DA

Full Time Fixed Term until 31/12/2026

Applications are invited for two Postdoctoral Research Fellow positions to work at the Institute of Sound and Vibration Research (ISVR). These positions are funded until the end of 2026 initially, with the possibility of extension. Early applications are strongly encouraged, as shortlisting and interviews may take place before the closing date.

The ISVR is recognised as one of the world’s leading centres for aeroacoustics research. The successful candidate will join a dynamic and collaborative research environment supported by state‑of‑the‑art laboratories, high‑performance computing facilities and industrial engagement.

You will join the EPSRC project Towards Zero Carbon Aviation (TOZCA), a research project developing the tools, evidence and scenarios required to support the aviation sector’s transition to net‑zero carbon emissions. The project examines how future technologies, propulsion concepts, fuels, operational changes and behavioural shifts can together deliver more sustainable aviation.

In this role, you will contribute to TOZCA’s whole‑aircraft noise prediction capability, ensuring acoustics are robustly represented within the project’s wider modelling framework. You will develop, apply and integrate aeroacoustic methods for emerging propulsion technologies, new airframe-propulsion configurations and operational scenarios contributing to decarbonisation. The work will also involve conducting scenario analyses to examine how noise might evolve across different technological and operational futures and how it interacts with emissions, policy options and airport‑level constraints. This is a key part of supporting the consortium’s ability to understand trade‑offs and assess future aviation system outcomes.

You will collaborate with a broad community of partners across academia, government and industry. This includes engagement with organisations involved in aviation policy, aircraft and engine development, airline operations, airport planning and sustainable aviation initiatives. The project provides opportunities for participation in workshops, conferences and joint dissemination efforts.

About you

You will have, or be close to completing, a PhD in aeroacoustics, acoustics, fluid dynamics, aerospace engineering, applied mathematics or a closely related field. You should have expertise in at least one of the following areas:

• aeroacoustic prediction methods
• noise‑source or noise‑propagation modelling
• reduced‑order or low‑order modelling
• scientific programming (e.g. Python, MATLAB, etc.)

You should be able to work independently and collaboratively, communicate your research clearly, and contribute effectively to a multidisciplinary team. Experience working on noise modelling for aircraft or systems‑level assessments would be beneficial but not essential.

What we can offer you

As a university we aim to create an environment where everyone can thrive and are proactive in fostering a culture of inclusion, respect and equality of opportunity. With a generous holiday allowance as well as additional university closure days, we are committed to supporting our staff and are open to a flexible working approach.

Working at the University of Southampton:

Check out the staff benefits and why you should join us at The University of Southampton.

If you wish to discuss the role, please contact Dr Sergi Palleja-Cabre at S.Palleja-Cabre@soton.ac.uk.

Please apply by uploading your CV and a Cover Letter detailing how your skills and experience match the requirements of the role.

Further details:

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applicants who support our mission of inclusivity.

Apply by 11.59 pm GMT on the closing date.

For assistance contact Recruitment on +44(0)2380 592750 or recruitment@soton.ac.uk quoting the job number.