CIFRE Thesis - Parametric Body Force Model for Propellers (m/f)
We offer the opportunity to work in a world‑leader company at the forefront of research and innovation. A PhD thesis entitled "Parametric Body Force Model for Propellers" has opened within Airbus Operations SAS on its Saint‑Martin site. You will join the Flight Physics Capabilities, Technologies and Strategy department. The thesis can start in January 2026 and will last 3 years.
Mission of the team
The Flight Physics Capability Operations domain (1GZ) supports, develops and delivers world‑class customer‑oriented computational simulation means and services for aerodynamics, multi‑phase flows, convective heat transfer and icing disciplines through technical excellence, continuous innovation and realistic commitments.
Working environment
Toulouse is a dynamic city in southwestern France, a global capital of aeronautics and European capital for space research. It offers excellent outdoor activities and an innovative work environment.
Benefits

Financial rewards: attractive salary, success & profit sharing schemes, employee savings plan and voluntary stock purchase plan.
Work / Life balance: extra days‑off for special occasions, holiday transfer option, staff council providing social, cultural and sports activities.
Well‑being / Health: complementary health insurance coverage (disability, invalidity, death). Depending on site: health services centre, concierge services, gym, car‑pooling application.
Individual development: unlimited access to more than 10 000 e‑learning courses, certifications, accelerated programmes, national and international mobility.

The role
Sustainable aircraft require new concepts involving increasingly complex physical phenomena—integrating aerodynamics, propulsion, structures and materials. Airbus is leading a digital design transformation that integrates advanced CFD platforms (CODA) with surrogate aerodynamic models of turbomachinery stages. The thesis aims to develop a parametric body‑force model to enable aerodynamic design and cost‑effective integration of the propeller with the airframe. The model will first be demonstrated on disruptive aircraft configurations and later applied to aero‑propulsive optimisation problems.
Key responsibilities

Develop and validate the parametric body‑force model within the CODA CFD platform.
Conduct high‑fidelity CFD simulations and post‑processing.
Analyze aerodynamic coupling between airframe and propeller and evaluate optimisation strategies.
Collaborate with Airbus, ONERA and DLR partners.
Prepare technical reports and present results to senior management.

Required qualifications

Master or research degree in Applied Mathematics or Fluid Dynamics.
Mastery of the end‑to‑end CFD process from geometry generation to code execution and post‑processing.
Proficiency in object‑oriented programming (C++, Python).
Solid knowledge of optimisation and adjoint theory.
Knowledge of turbomachinery/propeller aerodynamics is a plus.
Strong communication, networking and collaboration skills.
Advanced level of English.

Interview process
If your profile matches our expectations, you will be invited to a video interview where you have a few minutes to present your motivation and competence. Following the interview, your application may be forwarded to the management team.
Employment details
Company: Airbus Operations SASEmployment type: PhD, ResearchExperience level: StudentJob family: Flight & Space Physics
Legal and EEO statements
By submitting your CV or application you consent to Airbus using and storing information about you for monitoring purposes. Airbus is committed to a diverse workforce and an inclusive environment. We welcome applications irrespective of background, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation or religious belief. Airbus never requests any monetary exchange during recruitment.
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