Air Force Research Laboratory · 10 hours ago
Multiphase Flow Computational Scientist
Air Force Research Laboratory is seeking a Multiphase Flow Computational Scientist to contribute to advancements in rocket engine technologies. The role involves performing numerical simulations of multiphase flow physics and collaborating with experimental teams to inform rocket design and testing.
National DefenseMilitary
Responsibilities
Perform cutting edge, massively parallel numerical simulations of multiphase flow physics of relevance for rocket engines and high-speed systems
Formulate, implement and demonstrate theoretical and computational multiphase flow models involving turbulence, cryogenics, propellant sprays, propellant flashing, propellant boiloff, detonations, supercritical & transcritical pressures, shock waves, vacuum effects, surface deformation/erosion, solid particulates, conjugate heat transfer, microgravity effects, hydrocarbon fuel/oxidizer combustion kinetics, solid-phase and liquid-phase reactions
Develop and maintain large-scale, custom-made, non-commercial HPC simulation codes designed for scientific discovery and advancement of RDRE technology
Analyze and interpret large amounts of simulation data to inform the design of rocket engines and flight vehicles
Work closely with our in-house experimental test group and inform hardware design and test campaigns based on simulation results
Interface with external research organizations, including academia, government agencies, and industry partners
Qualification
Required
US Citizenship
Ph.D. degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Applied Physics, or Computational Mathematics from an accredited academic institution. Non-PhD candidates who are close to graduation from their PhD programs will also be considered
Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance
Preferred
Strong fundamental knowledge on multiphase flow physics and their applications to rocket propulsion or high-speed systems
Hands-on scientific research experience using High-Performance Computing (HPC) capabilities within the context of multiphase flow physics
Experience with developing and maintaining parallelized research simulation codes in C++, Fortran, and Python
Demonstrated experience with code development, simulation data analysis, scientific rigor, physical interpretation, and communication of results to technical audiences via referred journal papers and technical seminars
Strong scientific knowledge on current trends in computational multiphase flow physics such as volume of fluid methods, diffuse-interface methods, level-set methods, real-fluid equations of state, multicomponent systems, phase change, compressibility effects, high- and low-pressure effects, low-dissipation numerical methods, large-eddy simulations, solid-gas interfaces, heat transfer, and Lagrangian point-particle models
Experience in modern aspects of data science and data-driven modeling
Experience in performing integrated, full-system simulations
Knowledge of physicochemical peculiarities associated with cryogens and hypergolic propellants
Familiarity with practical engineering aspects of rocket engines and high-speed systems
Genuine interest in working with a diverse team to solve multi-disciplinary applied engineering problems and advance the mission of the Air & Space Forces
Company
Air Force Research Laboratory
Air Force Research leads the discovery, development and delivery of warfighting technologies for our air, space and cyberspace forces.
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageRecent News
2026-01-24
Business Wire
2026-01-09
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