Penn State University

Assistant Research Professor

Penn State University$70K — $95K *
Education, Government & Non-Profit
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Ph.D. in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Chemical Engineering (or related field) with less than 5 years post-doctoral experience.
  • Experience with commercial CFD codes in a high performance computing (HPC) environment for designing combustion devices.
  • Proven ability in modeling chemically reacting or combustion systems with CFD.
  • Strong interest in publishing scientific findings and delivering presentations.

Responsibilities

  • Perform CFD simulations for thermal power systems applications, particularly undersea environments.
  • Identify key physical phenomena and derive actionable design recommendations from simulations.
  • Assess existing modeling techniques against state-of-the-art practices and propose enhancements.
  • Collaborate with colleagues across various academic departments at Penn State for resource sharing.
  • Engage in communication with management, sponsors, and stakeholders regarding project progress.
  • Conceive and draft proposals for new research programs.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Robust retirement plans.
  • Generous 75% tuition discount available for employees and eligible dependents.
Full Job Description
We are searching for a multi-phase combustion computational fluid dynamics (CFD) Research Professor to join our Technology Concepts and Modeling Department in the Energy Sciences and Power Systems Division at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University. You will: • Perform CFD simulations of chemically reacting thermal power systems for undersea and other unique applications using existing commercially available codes and existing high performance computing (HPC) infrastructure • Identify key physics of the systems through simulations to drive actionable design recommendations • Identify gaps between existing modeling infrastructure and the state of the art, and make recommendations for the necessary resources to close the gaps • Engage with related academic units and faculty at Penn State University to foster collaboration and leverage University resources • Communicate with internal management, program sponsors, and other stakeholders • Develop ideas and proposals for potential new programs Required skills/experience areas include: • Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or closely related field with less than 5 years of experience post-dissertation • Knowledge and use of commercial CFD codes in a HPC environment for the design of practical combustion devices for propulsion applications • Demonstrated experience using CFD to model a chemically reacting or combustion system • Desire to produce scientific reports, publications, and presentations Preferred skills/experience areas include: • Additional knowledge of commercial codes, especially STAR-CCM+ • Past success with of detailed CAD geometry and grid generation for simulations • Proven track record of funded activities from various government agencies • Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher and may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility, if required This position will be located fully on-site in State College, PA. BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. All positions at ARL require candidates to possess the ability to obtain a government security clearance; you will be notified during the interview process if this position is subject to a government background investigation. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Employment with the ARL will require successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen. BENEFITS Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. (Note: For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.) CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

About Penn State University

Penn State University Careers

There has never been a better time to explore the diverse job opportunities at Penn State University—the hub of innovation and professional growth.

Opportunities Await

Join Penn State University's dynamic team to assist in shaping the future of education and research. With a variety of positions available, from administrative roles to research-focused appointments, Penn State is at the forefront of fostering leadership and professional development. Transform your career trajectory with the best minds at Penn State University, where the culture of diversity and innovation thrives. This institution stands unique in the marketplace, offering a blend of academic excellence and real-world impact. Engage with a network of professionals dedicated to groundbreaking work and collaborative success across various disciplines.

Penn State University Job Opportunities

The team is actively building a market-leading workforce to support some of the most significant and innovative projects in academia and beyond.

Innovate and Lead

Join the largest network of academic and industry professionals at Penn State University, where over 17,000 dedicated individuals work at the intersection of education, research, and community service.

Drive Change

Deliver targeted solutions and educational advancements through a depth and breadth of expertise that is unmatched in the academic sector.

Be Part of a Great Team

Work with a diverse team leveraging Penn State University's extensive resources and global connections to develop solutions that make a real-world difference.

Future-Proof Your Career

Advance your career with limitless opportunities supported by unmatched training, development programs, and certification support from Penn State University.

Explore

Discover how Penn State University leads in sustainable practices and innovative research projects that pave the way for future generations.

The Penn State University Employment Experience

The combined expertise, global reach, and collaborative environment at Penn State University help overcome challenges and lead transformation in the academic and professional world. Candidates around the globe look to Penn State for new strategies and robust career paths to drive growth and success in the digital era.

Stay Connected

Join the Team

Search open positions that match your skills and interests. Penn State University seeks passionate, curious, creative, and solution-driven team players. SEARCH PENN STATE JOBS

Keep Up to Date

Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who are part of Penn State.

READ CAREERS BLOG

Job Alert Emails

Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Explore what exciting and rewarding opportunities await at Penn State University.
Learn more about Penn State University

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Penn State University

  • Penn State University
    Assistant Research Professor
    $70K — $95K *
    State College, PA 16801 (Centre County)
    Education, Government & Non-Profit
    In-Person
  • Penn State University
    Accountant
    $68K — $102K *
    University Park, PA 16802 (Centre County)
    Finance & Insurance
    In-Person
  • Penn State University
    Accountant
    $68K — $102K *
    Remote
    Legal & Accounting
    Remote in State College, PA
  • Penn State University
    Computer Engineer
    $76K — $164K *
    University Park, PA 16802 (Centre County)
    Technical Services
    In-Person
  • Penn State University
    Computer Engineer
    $76K — $164K *
    State College, PA 16801 (Centre County)
    Information Technology
    In-Person

More Education, Government & Non-Profit Jobs

Find similar Assistant Research Professor jobs: