Aerodynamics Engineer
As an Aerodynamics Engineer, you'll help define the solar car's shape end-to-end: research, modeling, CAD, meshing and CFD — then validate on track. You'll balance drag, robustness, safety and manufacturability within regulations, and collaborate tightly with other technical teams to deliver a race-ready model. Aerodynamics engineer applicants are strongly encouraged to apply for the 'early start' deadline, which is on the 31st of January. For more information see below.
Aerodynamics Engineer
Own aero performance from concept to validation.
Highlights
- Research → CAD → meshing → CFD → test
- Balance drag, robustness, safety & manufacturability
- Cross-team collaboration to deliver a race-ready model
What you willl do
- Explore aero concepts; turn theory into performance via modeling and simulation
- Set up CAD, meshing strategies and CFD studies; run parametric/sensitivity sweeps
- Build and refine the exterior for minimum drag with required robustness and manufacturability
- Plan and support on-track/wind tests; analyze results and iterate
- Work closely with other technical teams to integrate aero with the vehicle design
Are you...
- Eager to learn?
- Creative, communicative and a team player?
- Passionate?
- Not scared of a bit of research?
- Familliar with Python or other programming languages?
- Interested in fluid dynamics or subsonic aerodynamics?
- Familliar with CAD software, CFD simulations and Panel Codes (XFoil, XFLR5, etc.)?
- Proficient in English
We offer...
- A spot in an incredibly motivated and multidisciplinary team.
- An open and transparent work environment that appreciates your creative input and feedback.
- Real-life implementation of your ideas.
- Participation in Solar Challenges, including the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge Australia 2027!
These skills are great to have, but can and will also be developed during the project. The following are an indication of which programs provide you with skills suitable for an aerodynamic engineer in Top Dutch; (Applied) Mathematics, (Applied) Physics, Astronomy, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering.
Have questions or curious about this position? Reach out at egbert.kuipers@solarracinggroningen.nl.Early start
For many students, aerodynamics is an undiscovered field during their studies. If you want to gain the necessary skills & knowledge before officially starting fulltime, we encourage applying for the 'early start' position.
- The deadline is the 31st of January, with selections happening in February, and earliest start at the end of February.
- Throughout the part-time (~8-12 hours per week) period you will be trained to become an Aerodynamics Engineer, capable of designing a solar car for the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge 2027.
- Part of the training will be participation in a course hosted at the Faculty of Science and Engineering, for which it might be possible to obtain credits, depending on your degree.
You will learn:
- How to use the necessary software such as Rhino 3D & Ansys Fluent.
- The fundamentals of aerodynamics from academic professionals.
- The basics of solar car design from experience TDSR alumni.
Applying after the early start deadline is still possible, but preference will be given to early starters. It is therefore not guaranteed that after the early start deadline Aerodynamics Engineer positions will still be available.
If you are available but unsure about the time commitment we recommend to still apply. The amount of hours for the early start period are negotiable, it is possible to find a programme that fits you.
If you are interested in the position but are not available for the early start, we highly recommend to still apply before the deadline anyways. As positions within the team are limited, and preference is given to early starters, it is highly advisable we know your interest to take you into account during the selection procedure.
Any questions about the early start can be sent to ian.soede@solarracinggroningen.nl
Timeline
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Applications open
November 2025CV + motivation (+ portfolio if relevant).
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Early Applications close
31st of January 2026Final day to submit for early start applications.
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Early Start Period
February - September 2026Part-time training and preparation (~8-12 hours per week).
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Interview Round 1
January - March, 2026Talk about who you are.
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Applications close
1st of March, 2026Final day to submit your application.
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Interview Round 2
February - April, 2026Discuss your assignment approach and your qualifications. It depends on when the first interview is.
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Selection
end of April, 2026Panel & culture fit.