Creating Thermoset-Thermoplastic Coupling Layers for Welding for Novel Competitive Composite AerostructuresJob descriptionTo reduce aviation's climate impact and meet EU emission targets, lighter aircraft and faster adoption (and scaling-up!) of sustainable technologies are essential. One promising solution is using high-performance thermoplastic composites which offer advantages over traditional thermoset composites such as faster processing, higher production rates at lower cost, and recyclability. Whereas thermoset components are assembled with mechanical fasteners like rivets (additional weight and cost, and a major cause for production rework and scrap), thermoplastic composites are assembled through welding, which reduces weight and simplifies production.
HyWeld aims to develop hybrid welding technology that enables joining of thermoplastic and thermoset composite components, taking advantage of both the materials. A crucial first step in this process is to create a weldable thermoset surface.
The postdoctoral researcher will play a vital role in the development of this coupling layer used on the thermoset, to enable the welding technology to the thermoplastic substrate. The work will involve the assessment of compatibility of the coupling layer with the thermoset and thermoplastic materials used in the substrates. This entails research on diffusion, curing and adhesion mechanisms, interphase morphology studies, and optimization of the manufacturing cycle for optimal structural performance. The research will consist of both experimental and modelling work. Key responsibilities include experimental validation of the structural performance of the coupling layer, with models to predict the compability and optimal processing cycle for different material combinations, and contributing to scientific publications and project deliverables.
The position is based at Delft University of Technology, Faculty of Aerospace Engineering and is part of a close collaboration with SAM XL and several industrial partners.
Job requirements - Educational Background: A PhD degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, material science, nanoscience, polymer chemistry, applied physics or a related subject, with a strong background in experimental work relating to polymer processing, fracture mechanics. Experience in developing constitutive models is considered an advantage.
- Critical Thinking and Scientific Leadership: Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills, with the ability to independently define research directions, and lead key technical aspects of the project.
- Teamwork and Responsibility: Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary project team while taking ownership of individual research objectives and deliverables.
- Communication Skills: Excellent proficiency in English, both written and oral, with the ability to communicate research outcomes clearly to academic and industrial stakeholders.
The selected candidate is expected to actively contribute to a dynamic and collaborative research environment within the Department of Aerospace Structures and Materials, Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology.
TU DelftDelft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.
At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core
values and we actively
engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.
Challenge. Change. Impact!
Faculty Aerospace EngineeringThe Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is a leading international community where innovation in aerospace meets global challenges. Our support and scientific staff, including PhD candidates, postdocs, and students, largely work together on three main themes: the energy transition, sustainable aerospace, and safety and security, with the aim of tackling climate change and contributing to the independence and security of Europe.
When you join us, you become part of a diverse, collaborative, and forward-thinking environment where your ideas and perspectives are valued. Our work extends beyond the lab—into field labs, innovation hubs, and partnerships with other faculties, research institutes, governments, and industry, both locally and globally.
We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming workplace, assisted by an
active Diversity & Inclusion team. This includes tangible support such as funding for extra personnel for family and caregiving responsibilities, mentoring programmes, and initiatives that promote cultural exchange and integration.
You don’t just join our faculty — you join a community where you can thrive, grow, and help shape the future of aerospace.
Conditions of employment - Duration of contract is 2 years Temporary
- A job of 38-40 hours per week.
- Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
- An excellent pension scheme via the ABP.
- The possibility to compile an individual employment package every year.
- Discount with health insurers on supplemental packages.
- Flexible working week.
- Every year, 232 leave hours (at 38 hours). You can also sell or buy additional leave hours via the individual choice budget.
- Plenty of opportunities for education, training and courses.
- Partially paid parental leave
- Attention for working healthy and energetically with the vitality program.
Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit,
Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A
Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands. .
Additional informationIf you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Dr. Julie Teuwen, Associate Professor, via
J.J.E.Teuwen@tudelft.nl.
Application procedureAre you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than
11 March 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents (in English):
- CV
- Motivational letter explaining their motivation for applying to this position.
You can address your application to Dr. Julie Teuwen, Associate Professor. Interviews with shortlisted candidates are expected to take place at the end of March 2026. The anticipated starting date for the position is between May-July 2026.
Please note: - You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
- As part of knowledge security, TU Delft conducts a risk assessment during the recruitment of personnel. We do this, among other things, to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology. The assessment is based on information provided by the candidates themselves, such as their motivation letter and CV, and takes place at the final stages of the selection process. When the outcome of the assessment is negative, the candidate will be informed. The processing of personal data in the context of the risk assessment is carried out on the legal basis of the GDPR: performing a public task in the public interest. You can find more information about this assessment on our website about knowledge security.
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