Postdoc position in Improved Performance of Wing Sails using Active Flow Control

Join us in developing innovative flow control systems to enhance wind-assisted ship propulsion and support sustainable maritime technology!

About us
The Department of Mechanics and Maritime Sciences (M2) conducts fundamental and applied research across all transport modes to achieve sustainable technological solutions. We offer and contribute to bachelor’s and master’s programs in areas like Shipping, Naval Architecture, Ocean Engineering, Automotive, and Mechanical Engineering. M2 fosters strong collaboration between academia, industry, and society for effective knowledge transfer. With an international environment, outstanding research, and world-class education, M2 consists of seven engineering and maritime science divisions, plus an administration and support division

About the research project
Motor sailing ships are key to meeting IMO’s greenhouse gas emission reduction targets. By integrating sails, ships can reduce engine power usage, fuel consumption, and emissions - when combined with CO2-neutral fuels, there is a possibility to achieve fossil free shipping. Hard wing sails are a common wind propulsor, but optimizing their performance requires advanced sheeting strategies to prevent stall, a condition where sudden thrust loss occurs due to airflow separation. This project aims to develop an active flow control (AFC) system to enhance sail performance and mitigate stall effects.

We offer a postdoc position in active flow control for wingsail performance and operation. The goal is to develop innovative flow control techniques to optimize aerodynamic performance and reduce vibrations in unsteady metocean conditions. Prior research highlights the importance of stall conditions for optimal sail performance and safety, while also demonstrating the complexity of airflow around sails and ship structures.

To achieve this ojective, the project will combine scale-resolved CFD (PANS and LES) with experimental studies to analyze airflow near and beyond stall as well as around the hull. The postdoc will develop passive and active flow control algorithms, potentially incorporating machine learning/AI, to enhance aerodynamic performance and stall delay with rapid response times. The research is conducted in collaboration with KTH, the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, where experiments and model-scale sea trials will take place. The team has well-established partnerships in wind-assisted propulsion and flow control research.

Who we are looking for
To qualify for the position of postdoc, you must hold a doctoral degree in a relevant field, awarded no more than three years prior to the application deadline. 

You also have:

• Ability to work independently with strategic planning skills
• Creativity and hands-on problem-solving approach
• Solid interest in fluid dynamics, with ability in experimental and simulation work
• Interest in interdisciplinary collaboration and effective communication skills
• Motivation, curiosity, and a strong desire to further develop research, communication, and project management skills

The position requires sound verbal and written communication skills in English.

You are expected to be somewhat accustomed to teaching, and to demonstrate good potential within research and education.

* The date shown in your doctoral degree certificate is the date we use, as this is the date you have met all requirements for the doctoral degree. Exceptions from the 3-year limit can be made for longer periods resulting from parental leave, sick leave or military service.

What you will do
Your major responsibility as postdoc is to perform your own research in a research group. You will be guided by senior researchers at the involved departments and companies. The position may also include teaching on undergraduate and master's levels as well as supervising master's and/or PhD students to a certain extent. Another important aspect involves collaboration within academia and with society at large. The position is meritorious for future research duties within academia as well as industry/the public sector.

What we offer
Chalmers provides a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg .
Read more about working at Chalmers  and our benefits  for employees.

Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence . Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses to help you settle in.

Contract terms
This postdoc position is a full-time temporary employment for two years.

Application Procedure
Please submit your application in English as PDF files according to the instructions below. Each file should not exceed 40 MB. Note: The system does not support Zip files.

1. CV
Name the document as: CV, [Your Surname]. Include the following:

• A comprehensive CV, including a complete list of publications.
• Details of previous teaching and pedagogical experience.
• Contact information for two references.

2. Personal Letter
Name the document as: Personal Letter, [Your Surname]. Limit the letter to 1–3 pages and include:

• A brief introduction about yourself.
• A summary of your previous research fields and key research outcomes.
• An outline of your future goals and research focus.

Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. 

Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered.

Application deadline:  May 8th, 2025

For questions please contact:
Prof Rickard Bensow
Marine Technology
Email: rickard.bensow@chalmers.se
Tel: +46 772 1479

We look forward to your application!

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. *** 

URL to this page
https://www.chalmers.se/en/about-chalmers/work-with-us/vacancies/?rmpage=job&rmjob=13847&rmlang=UK