Professor in X-ray characterization, modelling and prediction of mechanical properties of composites materials for Wind energy applications - DTU Wind

If you are keen on contributing to the green transition, envisioning a planet running entirely on renewable energy, and looking for the best possible environment for fulfilling your dreams and ambitions, it is right here in front of you. 

At DTU Wind and Energy Systems, we are advancing the research frontier in materials for wind energy applications. Our ambition is to develop advanced and reliable materials through cutting‑edge computational modelling, strengthened by insights from X‑ray computed tomography. By linking detailed microstructural measurements to the behaviour of materials in their final structural context, we can create highly reliable predictive models. These capabilities are crucial for extending turbine lifetimes, enabling resilient structural design, and driving innovation in next‑generation wind‑energy technologies.

To support this mission, the Department of Wind and Energy Systems at the Technical University of Denmark is seeking applications for a Professorship in X‑ray characterization, modelling and prediction of mechanical properties of composite materials for wind energy applications. As our new Professor in X‑ray–based modelling and mechanical performance of materials for wind energy applications, you will play a key role in strengthening research into advanced materials for wind turbines, as well as the digitalization and computational modelling of wind turbine blade materials.

This position offers an exceptional opportunity to join a dynamic and forward‑thinking research environment. You will become part of a multidisciplinary, international, and welcoming team that values creativity, diversity, empathy, and collaboration, and is deeply committed to making a meaningful impact on the planet’s future.

Responsibilities and qualifications
As Professor, you will be responsible for establishing and leading an internationally recognised research programme in X-ray-based characterization, physics-based modelling, and structural performance prediction of composite materials for wind energy applications.

You will be expected to contribute to the following research challenges:

• Developing new techniques and approaches for analysing X-ray data in fibre-reinforced composites, including fibre misalignment and other manufacturing-induced features.
• Supporting the implementation of X-ray-based imaging techniques in quality control and qualification of composite materials and structures.
• Optimising testing techniques for fibre-reinforced composites through advanced X-ray-informed finite element modelling.
• Advancing digitalization and multiscale computational modelling of wind turbine blade materials, with a focus on mechanical performance and the influence of manufacturing processes.
• Using advanced computational modelling to enable the development and utilisation of innovative materials for wind energy applications.

You will also be expected to:

• Attract national and international research funding and lead large-scale, trend-setting research projects.
• Further develop collaborations with national and international research institutes and industrial partners.
• Take a leading role in teaching and supervision at the Beng, BSc, MSc, and PhD levels, including online and lifelong-learning activities.
• Contribute to the implementation of DTU's strategic objectives and DTU Wind and Energy Systems' strategy, including sustainable technological transition, digital engineering, and the advancement of next-generation wind energy technologies.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate scientific excellence in finite element modelling, X-ray computed tomography, and other image-based characterization techniques across multiple length scales, with direct application to composite materials used in wind turbine blades.

The successful candidate should have:

• A documented record of original scientific contributions and high-quality publications within relevant fields.
• Clear indicators of scientific impact and international visibility.
• Experience in coordinating national and international research projects.
• A strong track record of collaboration with the wind industry and other industrial stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to attract external research funding and develop strategic research activities.

In addition, the candidate should have documented experience and quality in teaching and educational development, including:

• Teaching and supervision at Beng, BSc, MSc, and PhD levels.
• Development of courses, teaching materials, and educational activities.
• Contributions to curriculum development and educational innovation.
• The ability and motivation to take a leading role in the further development of education within composite materials, computational modelling, and wind energy technologies.

The successful candidate will play an essential role in ensuring that DTU Wind maintains and strengthens its position as a globally leading expert organisation in this field.

The successful candidate is expected to be proficient in English and willing to learn Danish and be able to teach in Danish within three years. DTU provides Danish language training to support this development.

You will be assessed against the responsibilities and qualifications stated above and the following general criteria:

• Documented experience and quality of teaching and curriculum development
• Research impact and experience, funding track record and research vision
• International impact and experience 
• Societal impact
• Innovativeness, including commercialization and collaboration with industry
• Leadership, collaboration, and interdisciplinary skills
• Communication skills

Salary and terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. In addition, supplements can be negotiated in accordance with DTU’s salary structure for scientific staff: www.inside.dtu.dk/en/human-resources/during-employment/salary/salary-structures

Further information 
Further information may be obtained from Head of Section Anthony Fraisse, +45 93511564, antf@dtu.dk, Head of Division Ignacio Marti, +45 93511511, imarti@dtu.dk or Head of Department, Morten Willaing Jeppesen, +45 93518985, mortenj@dtu.dk.

You can read more about DTU Wind Energy at http://www.vindenergi.dtu.dk/

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark. 

Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 31 December 2026 (23:59 Danish time). 

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter) addressed to the President
• Vision for teaching and research 
• CV including employment history, list of publications indicating scientific highlights, H-index and ORCID (see http://orcid.org/)
• Teaching portfolio including documentation of teaching experience
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD)

You can learn more about the recruitment process here.

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

DTU – For the benefit of society since 1829
DTU is one of Europe's leading elite technical universities. Through research and education at an international top level, we create solutions to the major societal challenges of our time and help secure Europe's global leadership in sustainable technological development. Since Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU almost 200 years ago, our mission has remained the same: We develop and create value through the natural and technical sciences for the benefit of society. DTU has 13,800 students, 1,600 PhD students, and 6,500 employees. We work in an international environment and have an inclusive, stimulating, and informal work culture. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland and collaborates with the best universities around the world.