Numerical Physicist
Hypersonica Prod · Munich · onsite
Help Build Europe's Hypersonic Capability
At Hypersonica, we’re redefining what’s possible in European defence technology. We exist to deliver speed, resilience, and technological independence at a pace that sets a new standard. We are a small, elite team working on problems that matter, and solving them fast.
By joining Hypersonica, you’re not stepping into a predefined role. You’re joining a talent dense environment where every individual shapes the direction of the company. Our philosophy is to hire a small number of exceptional people with broad, deep technical capability, strong judgement, and the ability to operate autonomously.
We hire for talent, not rigid boxes. This role represents a business need, but the way it evolves will be shaped by the individual. If you’ve achieved what others said was impossible, or you bring a unique combination of skills that doesn’t fit a traditional mould, we want to hear from you. The work you do here directly contributes to Europe’s technological independence.
What you'll do:
- Own the physical and mathematical foundations of our simulation capability for hypersonic vehicles, from governing equations through to validated predictive models.
- Develop, implement, and refine physical models for multi‑physics problems spanning fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and structural response.
- Derive and assess numerical schemes, including discretisation, time integration, and solver strategies, with a focus on accuracy, stability, and robustness.
- Formulate coupling approaches between physical domains and analyse their numerical behaviour and convergence.
- Lead verification and validation (V&V) activities, including code verification, solution verification, and validation against experimental and flight data.
- Apply uncertainty quantification (UQ) and sensitivity analysis to establish confidence in simulation results and support design decisions.
- Develop reduced‑order and surrogate models to enable rapid design exploration alongside high‑fidelity simulation.
- Work closely with the Numerical Code Development, Aerodynamics, Aerothermal, and Aeroelastic teams to turn physical insight into reliable engineering tools.
- Document models, assumptions, and validation evidence to ensure traceability and configuration control.
Who you are:
- A hands‑on Numerical or Computational Physicist with experience turning physical theory into validated simulation models.
- Degree in Physics, Applied Mathematics, Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering (or related discipline); a PhD or postgraduate research experience in computational physics or numerical analysis is a strong plus.
- Deep understanding of continuum mechanics, fluid dynamics, and/or heat transfer, and of the partial differential equations (PDEs) that govern them.
- Strong grounding in numerical analysis, including finite volume, finite element, or spectral methods, and their stability and error properties.
- Programming skills in Python and C++, Fortran, or Julia for prototyping models and working within production simulation codes.
- Experience with V&V, uncertainty quantification, or model calibration against experimental data is a strong advantage.
- Comfortable making sound scientific judgements with incomplete data in fast‑moving, prototype‑heavy environments.
What we offer:
- A mission driven environment with the opportunity to work on one of Europe’s most consequential defence challenges, with direct impact on sovereign capability and security.
- Daily collaboration with top experts across engineering, operations, and defence, with real opportunity to learn from the best, contribute, and grow.
- High ownership and autonomy; no time tracking, no micromanagement, just clear objectives and accountability for outcomes.
- A fast paced environment where good ideas are implemented quickly, and feedback from test and flight drives real decisions.
- A culture that values clarity, integrity, and excellence, and supports people who take initiative and push boundaries responsibly.
- Competitive compensation and real share options aligned to responsibility and impact, not tenure or hierarchy.
Security and Eligibility Requirement:
- Due to the nature of the work we undertake, applicants must be a EU/Nato/German citizen, and be eligible for German Security Clearance.
At Hypersonica, every hire raises the bar. We are deliberately small, intensely capable, and deeply mission-driven. If this role feels like a strong fit, or if you believe you bring something exceptional that goes beyond the description, we encourage you to apply.
Hypersonica is an equal-opportunity employer and assesses candidates solely on merit, capability, and potential.
You can apply directly to this role or reach out to Nathan Sweeney, Head of Talent. We review every application and aim to respond to all candidates within two weeks, whether the answer is yes or no.