PhD Position Two-Phase Flow of Cryogenic Hydrogen

PhD Position Two‑Phase Flow of Cryogenic Hydrogen

Take on the challenge of investigating cryogenic two‑phase flows to enable reliable hydrogen distribution and sustainable aviation, as a PhD candidate at TU Delft.

Hydrogen is one of the most promising energy carriers and fuels for future sustainable aviation. As it flows from storage to the engine, the cryogenic liquid evaporates, creating a two‑phase mixture that affects hydrogen distribution, as well as active components along the line, such as heat exchangers and valves. Understanding and predicting the hydrogen flow and thermal behaviour is essential before such systems can be deployed.

As a PhD candidate in the Propulsion & Power group at TU Delft, you will tackle this challenge through advanced experimental and analytical investigations, focusing on how two‑phase flow develops along cryogenic distribution lines. The project is primarily experimental. You will help commission a new cryogenic test facility that is currently being developed in collaboration with the team, and run advanced experiments for investigating cryogenics two‑phase flow.

A second objective is to build cryogenic sensors for heat and flow measurements, in collaboration with the Von Karman Institute (VKI, Belgium).

• Commission and operate a new cryogenic test facility.
• Conduct advanced experimental studies on two‑phase cryogenic flow.
• Develop and validate cryogenic sensors for heat and flow measurements.
• Collaborate with international partners and contribute to the Propulsion & Power group.

• Masters degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or a closely related field.
• Strong foundations in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and heat transfer.
• Experience with experimental work, e.g., building or running test setups.
• Very good spoken and written English.
• Experience in two‑phase flow and heat transfer experiments and/or modelling is highly valued.

• 4‑year doctoral contract in principle, divided into two contracts: an initial 1.5‑year contract with an assessment within 15 months, and a subsequent 2.5‑year contract if performance requirements are met.
• Salary 3,059 – 3,881 € gross per month (based on a full‑time 38‑hour contract), increasing over the four years, plus 8 % holiday allowance and an end‑of‑year bonus of 8.3 %.
• Other benefits include health‑insurance discounts, monthly work‑cost contribution, and flexible work schedules.

Submit your application by 10 August 2026. Include CV, one‑page motivational letter, and copies of BSc and MSc degrees and transcripts.