Share page
Faculty of Mechanical Engineering :
The Chair of Thermal Turbomachines and Aeroengines
In order to fill a fixed-term position in full-time (39.83 hours/week = 100%) starting October 1st, 2026, we are looking for a
Research Assistant (m/f/x) – Numerical and experimental work
The Chair of Thermal Turbomachines and Aeroengines in the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the Ruhr University Bochum (LSTTF) is among the leading research groups in Germany in the field of experimental and numerical investigation of energy transformation systems. Cutting-edge numerical and experimental research is carried out, covering a broad spectrum of topics from classic turbomachinery aerothermodynamics, aeroelastics, two-phase flows and non-ideal compressible fluid dynamics with a strong focus on the design and optimisation of modern fluid energy machines to be employed in innovative cycles for power generation, energy storage and process engineering and using essentially non-conventional working fluids (such as steam, supercritical as well as transcritical CO2 flow, hydrogen, ammonia, organic fluids and mixtures).
We look for a highly motivated, enthusiastic and highly qualified research assistant, who will carry out the proposed research engaging in numerical as well as experimental investigations with the possibility of obtaining a Doctorate.
Scope: full-time
Duration: fixed-term, 3 years
Start: starting October 1st, 2026
Apply by: 2026-07-31
Your tasks:
Within a new research project technological issues are addressed in close cooperation with industrial and academic partners which are at the core of the conception and realization of new radial expander stages for use in compressed air storage systems. While an optimized aerothermodynamic design can lead to a considerable increase in the efficiency of the machines, the aerodynamic forces acting on the blades can compromise their structural integrity, especially at higher power levels. Accurate scaling methods are necessary to overcome these issues.
The project aims to develop a generalized scaling procedure for high power output based on scale-resolving simulations and precise flow measurements.
The in-house CFD-solver SharC will be further developed and adopted for all numerical investigations which will be validated against measurements performed on the Chair’s own axial and radial turbine testrigs.
Your profile:
- M.Sc. or Diploma in the field of Engineering or Physics
- Deep knowledge (Master level) of fluid energy machines aerodynamics and thermodynamics as well as turbulence modelling
- Familiarity with steady and unsteady intrusive velocity and pressure measurement techniques (HWA, pneumatic multi-hole probes, time-resolved pressure measurements)
- Familiarity with laboratory data acquisition systems and software (such as LabView) and with the appropriate scripting and user coding
- Very good knowledge (Master level) of the thermodynamic modelling of non-ideal fluids and mixtures
- Experience in setting up, running and post-processing numerical simulations of turbomachinery flow simulations
- Basic knowledge of construction and technical drawing
- Fluency in German (C1 level, in word and writing)
- Excellent ability to communicate and work in a heterogeneous team
We offer:
Challenging and varied tasks with a high level of independence, Employment at one of the largest universities in Germany within the University Alliance Ruhr
- We are committed to equal opportunities and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply
Further information:
The position is salaried and based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade E13 TV-L.
Further information can be found at (in German).
The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.
If the position is funded by third-party funds the employee has no teaching obligation.
Enquires and applications are to be sent clearly referencing the Job ID in electronic form (single PDF document including a cover letter, CV, full transcripts of university records and the name and contact details of three referees).
RUB sees itself as a university with an international presence. The campus languages are German and English. Competence in at least one of the two languages and the willingness to learn the other are a prerequisite. RUB provides corresponding free courses for employees.
German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZFA) in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF). https://www.daf.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/daf/mitarbeitende/index.html.en
The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews. At the request of a candidate (m/f/x), it will ensure its participation in the entire procedure. Please contact wpr@rub.de.
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum is one of Germany’s leading research universities, addressing the whole range of academic disciplines. A highly dynamic setting enables researchers and students to work across the traditional boundaries of academic subjects and faculties. To create knowledge networks within and beyond the university is Ruhr-Universität Bochum’s declared aim.
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum stands for diversity and equal opportunities. For this reason, we favour a working environment composed of heterogeneous teams, and seek to promote the careers of individuals who are underrepresented in our respective professional areas. The Ruhr-Universität Bochum expressly requests job applications from women. In areas in which they are underrepresented they will be given preference in the case of equivalent qualifications with male candidates. Applications from individuals with disabilities are most welcome.
Contact persons for further information:
Prof. Dr. Francesca di Mare +49 (0)234 / 32-24505
Dr.-Ing. David Engelmann +49(0) 234/32-23121
Travel costs, accommodation costs and loss of earnings or other application costs for job interviews can unfortunately not be reimbursed.
We look forward to receiving your application via our online application portal by 2026-07-31. Please make sure to mention the reference number ANR 5813.
RUHR-UNIVERSITÄT BOCHUM
44801 Bochum
Universitätsstraße 150
SOCIAL MEDIA