Who we are Qdot is a spin-out from the University of Oxford. Our mission is to combat the causes and effects of climate change by creating zero-emissions, sustainable UAVs for critical logistics applications including offshore and remote. Key to this mission is the development of its hybrid battery and fuel cell powertrain technology. We are based at Oxford Airport and currently have 13 employees.
Hybrid working, flexible working hours
EMI share options in fast growing start-up
~25 days + bank holidays (+1 per year of service up to a maximum of +5)
~Enhanced paternity/maternity leave
~ Salary sacrifice pension scheme +5% company contribution
~ Up to £400/year reimbursement of professional registration fees
~2x salary life insurance
~ Private virtual GP for immediate family
~ Employee Assistance Programme
~ Cycle to work scheme
~ Shopping discounts
~ Visa sponsorship and costs covered
We encourage healthy work-life balance by supporting flexible working hours and hybrid working, while also strengthening team bonds with company-wide social events. We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Aerothermal Engineer with deep expertise in heat transfer and fluid dynamics. They will hold a PhD in heat transfer or a closely related field. Experience with machine learning applied to thermal problems and additive heat exchanger design is a significant advantage. This role requires a proactive team player capable of leading technical projects and mentoring junior engineers.
Lead design and analysis of thermal components/systems, including heat exchangers, using advanced modelling tools (Ansys, OpenFOAM).
Develop and implement heat transfer experiments, including rig design, data acquisition, and result interpretation.
Apply machine learning methods to improve thermal performance modelling and experimental insight.
Model thermal systems using Simulink and Simscape for dynamic performance prediction and control integration.
Provide technical leadership across multidisciplinary teams on R&D and engineering projects.
Oversee project timelines, deliverables, and coordinate with internal and external stakeholders.
Contribute to the development of novel thermal management technologies, particularly in aerospace, energy, or automotive sectors.
Assist in planning new projects and fundraising.
PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Sciences, or a related field with specialisation in heat transfer.
Minimum 8 years of combined academic and industry experience (3–4 years post-PhD).
Proven experience in heat transfer experiments and test rig development.
Familiarity with data-driven methods and machine learning applications in thermal analysis.
Experience with additive manufacturing of heat exchangers.
Background in project management (certifications like PMP are a plus).
aerospace, automotive, energy).