PhD Position Cybersecurity and Post-Quantum Cryptography for Aviation Systems

Job description
We are seeking an exceptional PhD candidate to join the PostQat project, addressing the emerging cryptographic challenge in aviation by exploring secure architectures, protocols, and implementation strategies for future air traffic management (ATM) communication systems.

Your responsibilities will include conducting security assessments of aviation communication, navigation, and surveillance (CNS) systems, and analyzing quantum threats to ADS-B, CPDLC, ACARS, VHF communications, and satellite systems. You will design protocols for quantum-resistant cryptography adapted for aviation applications. The research will also define service and functional requirements for post-quantum secure air traffic management infrastructure.

The role will also involve addressing resource constraints of embedded avionics hardware and long-lifecycle aviation equipment with other project partners, while developing open-source reference implementations and protocol blueprints. You will collaborate with cybersecurity experts, aviation authorities, and industry partners, contributing to the European PQC transition roadmap for aviation.

The project:

PostQat (Post-Quantum Secure Communication and Surveillance for Air Traffic Management) establishes the foundation for embedding security (including post-quantum security) into the core of future aviation systems. TU Delft leads the concept and system design work package, focusing on vulnerability assessment, use case definition, and security requirements engineering. This exploratory research aims to position Europe as a leader in ATM cybersecurity and enable safe integration of next-generation automation.

Your PhD research will extend beyond this project. The research could include signal gathering and processing, simulations, and experiments with software-defined radios.

Job requirements
Required:

• MSc degree (or equivalent) in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
• Knowledgve in cryptography, network security, or information security
• Knoweledge of communication protocols and security architectures
• Knowledge of aviation systems (CNS, ATM) or strong motivation to acquire this expertise
• Programming experience in Python, C/C++, or Rust
• Ability to work with interdisciplinary teams spanning cybersecurity and aviation
• Excellent English communication skills (written and verbal)

Preferred:

• Experience with cryptography
• Experience with software defined radios
• Background in embedded systems, IoT security, or resource-constrained computing
• Contributions to open-source security projects

TU Delft
Delft 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 Engineering
The 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.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering.

PhD Position Cybersecurity and Post-Quantum Cryptography for Aviation Systems

Job description
We are seeking an exceptional PhD candidate to join the PostQat project, addressing the emerging cryptographic challenge in aviation by exploring secure architectures, protocols, and implementation strategies for future air traffic management (ATM) communication systems.

Your responsibilities will include conducting security assessments of aviation communication, navigation, and surveillance (CNS) systems, and analyzing quantum threats to ADS-B, CPDLC, ACARS, VHF communications, and satellite systems. You will design protocols for quantum-resistant cryptography adapted for aviation applications. The research will also define service and functional requirements for post-quantum secure air traffic management infrastructure.

The role will also involve addressing resource constraints of embedded avionics hardware and long-lifecycle aviation equipment with other project partners, while developing open-source reference implementations and protocol blueprints. You will collaborate with cybersecurity experts, aviation authorities, and industry partners, contributing to the European PQC transition roadmap for aviation.

The project:

PostQat (Post-Quantum Secure Communication and Surveillance for Air Traffic Management) establishes the foundation for embedding security (including post-quantum security) into the core of future aviation systems. TU Delft leads the concept and system design work package, focusing on vulnerability assessment, use case definition, and security requirements engineering. This exploratory research aims to position Europe as a leader in ATM cybersecurity and enable safe integration of next-generation automation.

Your PhD research will extend beyond this project. The research could include signal gathering and processing, simulations, and experiments with software-defined radios.

Job requirements
Required:

• MSc degree (or equivalent) in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
• Knowledgve in cryptography, network security, or information security
• Knoweledge of communication protocols and security architectures
• Knowledge of aviation systems (CNS, ATM) or strong motivation to acquire this expertise
• Programming experience in Python, C/C++, or Rust
• Ability to work with interdisciplinary teams spanning cybersecurity and aviation
• Excellent English communication skills (written and verbal)

Preferred:

• Experience with cryptography
• Experience with software defined radios
• Background in embedded systems, IoT security, or resource-constrained computing
• Contributions to open-source security projects

TU Delft
Delft 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 Engineering
The 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.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering.

PhD Position Modeling and Managing Future Low-Emission Aircraft in European Airspace

Job description

We are seeking a dedicated PhD candidate to join a new project, ZEUS, developing integrated frameworks for modeling, assessment, and management of next-generation low/zero-emission aircraft impact on the European ATM network.

Your responsibilities will include developing performance models for zero-emission aircraft (hydrogen combustion, hydrogen fuel cell, battery-electric, hybrid-electric) and assessing ATM network impacts of aircraft with fundamentally different operational characteristics. You will simulate mixed-fleet operations in European airspace and analyze how they will impact the future air traffic system, as well as explore new ways of managing these new entrants. The role involves investigating trajectory planning and energy management strategies for alternative propulsion, modeling differences in climb/descent performance, range, and endurance constraints, and evaluating airspace capacity implications and traffic flow management adaptations.

The project:

ZEUS develops an integrated framework for understanding how next-generation zero- and low-emission aircraft will affect air traffic management systems, airport infrastructure, and network operations. The project addresses system readiness, operational changes required, and phased integration strategies for new aircraft types. TU Delft brings expertise in aircraft performance modeling, ATM simulation, and network analysis to this exploratory research.

The PhD research will extend beyond this project. The research topic could include trajectory data-driven research in airspace capacities, as well as predictions and optimization for future aviation scenarios

Job requirements
Required:

• MSc degree (or equivalent) in Aerospace Engineering, Air Transport, Operations Research, or related field
• Strong analytical and modeling skills
• Proficiency in programming (such as Python, Rust, or Go)
• Understanding of aircraft performance principles and/or ATM systems
• Solid background in quantitative research methods
• Interest in sustainable aviation and environmental impacts
• Excellent English communication skills (written and verbal)
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in international teams

Preferred:

• Experience with aircraft performance modeling or flight simulation
• Knowledge of alternative propulsion systems (hydrogen, electric, hybrid)
• Familiarity with ATM concepts, airspace design, or traffic flow management
• Experience with optimization or operational research methods
• Experience with scientific publications in aviation or transportation research     

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Delft 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 Engineering
The 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.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering.

PhD Position Modeling and Managing Future Low-Emission Aircraft in European Airspace

Job description

We are seeking a dedicated PhD candidate to join a new project, ZEUS, developing integrated frameworks for modeling, assessment, and management of next-generation low/zero-emission aircraft impact on the European ATM network.

Your responsibilities will include developing performance models for zero-emission aircraft (hydrogen combustion, hydrogen fuel cell, battery-electric, hybrid-electric) and assessing ATM network impacts of aircraft with fundamentally different operational characteristics. You will simulate mixed-fleet operations in European airspace and analyze how they will impact the future air traffic system, as well as explore new ways of managing these new entrants. The role involves investigating trajectory planning and energy management strategies for alternative propulsion, modeling differences in climb/descent performance, range, and endurance constraints, and evaluating airspace capacity implications and traffic flow management adaptations.

The project:

ZEUS develops an integrated framework for understanding how next-generation zero- and low-emission aircraft will affect air traffic management systems, airport infrastructure, and network operations. The project addresses system readiness, operational changes required, and phased integration strategies for new aircraft types. TU Delft brings expertise in aircraft performance modeling, ATM simulation, and network analysis to this exploratory research.

The PhD research will extend beyond this project. The research topic could include trajectory data-driven research in airspace capacities, as well as predictions and optimization for future aviation scenarios

Job requirements
Required:

• MSc degree (or equivalent) in Aerospace Engineering, Air Transport, Operations Research, or related field
• Strong analytical and modeling skills
• Proficiency in programming (such as Python, Rust, or Go)
• Understanding of aircraft performance principles and/or ATM systems
• Solid background in quantitative research methods
• Interest in sustainable aviation and environmental impacts
• Excellent English communication skills (written and verbal)
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in international teams

Preferred:

• Experience with aircraft performance modeling or flight simulation
• Knowledge of alternative propulsion systems (hydrogen, electric, hybrid)
• Familiarity with ATM concepts, airspace design, or traffic flow management
• Experience with optimization or operational research methods
• Experience with scientific publications in aviation or transportation research     

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Delft 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 Engineering
The 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.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering.

Postdoc in Nature-Inspired Architectured Concrete

Job description

Concrete is a quasi-brittle material with low tensile strength, so engineers have to rely on steel reinforcement. This project explores a different approach: nature has already perfected the art of turning brittle minerals into tough materials, like the nacre in seashells, by combining them with soft organic polymers. This project proposes a method to mimic this by using 3D-printed concrete as a scaffold to guide the growth of a chitinous fungal network. The result is a new class of living composite materials that are not only structurally resilient but also inherently sustainable, moving us toward a future where infrastructure is grown, not just built.

In this project, we aim to prove the concept of hard/soft concrete composites. The research will include:

• Computational modelling and optimization of concrete architectures
• Experimental testing and validation of developed architectures

Therefore, experience in numerical concrete modelling with commercial (e.g., Abaqus) and/or self-developed tools is essential. Experimental experience is a plus.

Currently, in our section of Materials & Environment, we are conducting several research projects on architectured concrete and concrete metamaterials. This project will be the first in our department focusing on hard/soft composites.

As a postdoc, you will contribute to setting up this research direction and possible follow-up projects.

The postdoc will be hosted in the section of Materials & Environment, Department of Materials, Mechanics, Management & Design of TU Delft, which is at the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences. In the M&E section, experimental and modelling projects are ongoing with focus on construction materials.

Job requirements
We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher who can independently plan, execute, deliver and communicate their research effectively. The successful candidate needs to have obtained a PhD in engineering, with experience in concrete modelling and experimentation. The candidate should also have a proven track record in scientific publishing. A good command of English (written and spoken) is crucial.

Since the position is part-time (0.6 fte), it is preferred if the candidate is already in the Netherlands.     

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Delft 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 of Civil Engineering and Geosciences
The Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences (CEG) is committed to outstanding international research and education in the field of civil engineering, applied earth sciences, traffic and transport, water technology, and delta technology. Our research feeds into our educational programmes and covers societal challenges such as climate change, energy transition, resource availability, urbanisation and clean water. Our research projects are conducted in close cooperation with a wide range of research institutions. CEG is convinced of the importance of open science and supports its scientists in integrating open science in their research practice. The Faculty of CEG comprises 28 research groups in the following seven departments: Materials Mechanics Management & Design, Engineering Structures, Geoscience and Engineering, Geoscience and Remote Sensing, Transport & Planning, Hydraulic Engineering and Water Management.
Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences.