Join the Future of Space Propulsion: Two Postdoctoral Fellowships Available in the ROCINANTE Project

The Department of Aerospace Engineering at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) is currently inviting applications for two Postdoctoral Fellow positions to join the prestigious ERC-Consolidator Grant project, ROCINANTE.

Led by the Plasmas and Space Propulsion Team, ROCINANTE is a pioneering 5-year project aimed at unraveling and taming the non-linearly oscillating structures and turbulence present in electrodeless plasma thrusters for in-space propulsion. The successful execution of this project will pave the way for highly efficient propulsion devices and pioneer a new research line in the active control of space plasma thrusters.

Position Objectives & Responsibilities

We are seeking excellent, motivated researchers to fill the following roles. Both positions will also involve instructing and guiding PhD students dedicated to these topics.

• ROCINANTE-P1 (Experimental): You will supervise the development and instrumentation of a large plasma source, leading the experimental characterization and analysis of plasma fluctuations.

• ROCINANTE-P2 (Numerical): You will supervise the development of an advanced Particle-In-Cell (PIC) simulation framework in the Julia programming language, applying it to numerically characterize and analyze plasma fluctuations.

What We Offer

• Contract: A 2-year postdoctoral contract, extensible for an additional year (+1).

• Support: One-to-one mentoring with the dedicated space and resources necessary to nurture your career as a young researcher.

• Environment: Integration into a young, dynamic, highly qualified, and collaborative team with flexible working conditions.

• Visibility: Funding and opportunities to travel to international conferences to present your research.

Candidate Requirements

• Young PhD holder in disciplines relevant to the project.

• For P1: Previous design/laboratory experience is a strong requirement.

• For P2: Previous numerical experience is a strong requirement.

• Proven capability to lead research activities, publish, and communicate results.

• Strong team-working and internal communication skills (previous international experience is desirable).

• Good proficiency in both oral and written English.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their applications via email to odriva@pa.uc3m.es. Please indicate the reference “ROCINANTE-Px” (replacing ‘x’ with 1 or 2 depending on the targeted role) in the subject line. Attach the following documents in PDF format:

• A motivation letter highlighting your skills, experience, and research goals (maximum 1 page).

• Your CV, including relevant education and work experience.

• Contact information for up to two references (to be contacted during the hiring process).

• A sample of your best work (e.g., key publications or your PhD thesis).

Application Deadline: May 31, 2026. Please note that applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and the position will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate is found. Contracts are scheduled to begin in October 2026, though earlier or later start dates can be arranged. Applications from women and minorities are particularly encouraged.