Detailed description:
We are seeking a full-time Research Assistant to join the von Karman 
Institute in the Department of Turbomachinery and Propulsion. The position 
is initially fixed-term for one or two years, that can be turned into a 
permanent position.
As part of a team investigating advanced technologies for future aero-engine 
turbomachinery, you will support the experimental research programs of the 
Turbomachinery and Propulsion Laboratory at the von Karman Institute. The 
research assistant will be responsible for the design, execution and 
management of measurement campaigns investigating the aerodynamics of state-
of-art and forthcoming compressor technology. 
The candidate will be responsible for the commissioning and use of the VKI 
turbomachinery test facilities such as the high speed closed-loop compressor 
rig R4 and the high-speed linear cascades CT2. 
In particular, she or he will be responsible for the planning of the 
research objectives, the design of the test section, the definition of the 
experiments, the implementation of measurement techniques as well as the 
processing and analysis of the acquired data. Most of the research 
activities will use a combination of experiments and computational 
modelling.
The successful candidate is expected to organize the research data and 
report results and findings to colleagues and external research sponsors. 
The candidate is expected to contribute actively to the dissemination of 
her/his research findings through conference participation and peer-reviewed 
articles. 
The candidate will also will mentor graduate students and PhD candidates 
involved in the research projects.

Requirements
You will have a PhD in Mechanical, Aeronautical/Aerospace or related 
engineering field. 
Experience is required in the field of experimental fluid dynamics. The 
successful applicant is familiar with experimental techniques for testing of 
turbomachinery. The job requires multitasking skills and predisposition 
towards teamwork while liaising closely with faculty, student and staff 
members.
A background in one of the following subjects is a valuable asset: 
turbomachinery flows, measurement techniques for wind tunnel testing, 
experimental data analysis and processing. Familiarity with optical 
techniques (laser techniques, infrared thermography, Schlieren) is also an 
asset. Knowledge and experience in turbomachinery CFD is an asset, but not a 
prerequisite. Fluent knowledge of English (oral and written) is mandatory.
Candidates are expected to be self-motivated, hardworking and team players. 
We ensure a high-level of interaction in a world-known international 
research center specialized in fluid dynamics for aerospace, environmental 
and propulsion applications.  

Working conditions
The appointment is fixed-term for 1 year with possibility of extension and 
eventually to turn the assignment into a permanent position. The position 
type and related job description, salary and benefits are dependent on 
skills and experience. We maintain a very friendly and international working 
environment, which will provide easy adaptation for the selected applicant.

Selection process
You will be required to upload a covering letter, CV, publication list and 
the contact of two referees as part of your application.
Short-listed candidates are called for an interview with the search 
committee at the von Karman Institute. The selected candidate must comply 
with the internal procedures of the von Karman Institute and receive 
clearance from the Institute Board of Directors before she or he can begin 
to work. The von Karman Institute reserves the right not to appoint a 
candidate if no suitable candidate is found.

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