Careers at the von Karman Institute: Construct the future together!

For 65 years as international center of excellence in fluid dynamics, the von Karman Institute brings together young engineers and scientists from all over the world to study, improve their skills and perform their research.

Construct the future together! Besides its mission of education, the von Karman Institute gathers the top-level scientists and engineers to work on very challenging projects as the next generation of engines, new propulsion concepts, the new green energy, the safety of industry, solutions for a cleaner space, the Mission to Mars and many other fields of research which can make the difference for the human kind. Those scientists have access to more than 50 wind tunnels and test rigs, some of them unique in the world to help them in their projects.

VKI is a team of people looking in the same direction, for a better future, not only scientists and engineers but also students, PhD candidates, PostDocs, IT, Human Resources, accountants, librarians, designers and technicians and more....

“A scientist studies what is, whereas an engineer creates what never was“, Théodore von Kármán

We are seeking a full-time Research Engineer to join the von Karman Institute in the Department of Turbomachinery and Propulsion. As part of a team investigating advanced technologies for future aero-engine turbomachinery, you will support the experimental research programs in tight collaboration with leading industry partners. In a fast-changing world committed to greener energy conversion technologies, the research effort of the Turbomachinery and Propulsion Department focuses on advancing turbomachinery further for the transformation into a carbon-neutral technology.

The Turbomachinery and Propulsion Department operates experimental facilities to perform aerothermal tests on future technologies for gas turbine components at engine representative conditions. We develop and implement novel measurement techniques and high-precision instrumentation for research and for industry applications. We advance data assimilation techniques for hybrid experimental testing, robust uncertainty quantification and multi-physics design and optimization with growing application of machine learning algorithms.

As a research engineer, you will be responsible for the design, execution and management of measurement test campaigns investigating the aerodynamics of transonic compressors of novel aircraft engines. Most of the research activities are carried out by a combination of experiments and computational modelling. You will organize the research data and report results and findings to colleagues and external sponsors. You will have the opportunity to present your research work at international conferences and publish high-quality scientific articles.

Requirements:

- You have a Ph.D. in Mechanical, Aeronautical/Aerospace or related engineering field. Alternatively, you bring relevant experience as a R&D engineer with a M.Sc. degree.

- Experience is required in the field of experimental fluid dynamics with application to turbomachinery aerodynamics or aeroelasticity including measurement techniques, data reduction techniques and data analytics.

- Ideally, you have become familiar with or interested in several of the following fields: optical measurement techniques such as laser techniques, infrared thermography, Schlieren visualization, turbomachinery CFD, uncertainty quantification, machine learning.

- You can work effectively in an international multi-cultural working environment that emphasizes on collaboration.

- You are a team worker, who can also lead a project team and provide mentoring to graduate students.

- You are proficient in English in speech and writing, ideally you also speak Dutch and / or French

- This position is open to citizens of member countries of EU or NATO

What we offer:

- Work at the internationally renowned von Karman Institute in a key role advancing technologies for future propulsion and energy systems

- Work in close collaboration with leading aero-engine and turbomachinery companies as well as other industries

- Become part of the VKI network with global access to industry experts and academics in the field of fluid dynamics, propulsion, and energy conversion

- Experience the unique international workshop character of the VKI working environment

- Competitive salary with an attractive remuneration package and living in one of the most attractive areas of central Europe in the neighborhood of Brussels

Your Application:

Please, submit your online application on this website with the following documents

- Cover letter highlighting your motivations and qualifications for the position

- CV

- Copies of diplomas and transcripts

- List of publications, technical reports

- References (2 contacts)

Further information on the position and informal enquiries may be addressed to Dr. Bayindir H. Saracoglu (Research Manager) saracog@vki.ac.be, to Prof. Sergio Lavagnoli (lavagnoli@vki.ac.be) and Prof. Fabrizio Fontaneto (fontaneto@vki.ac.be).