Multiphase Flow Scientist

This job announcement will be accepting candidate submissions from 16 Sep 2023 to 16 Oct 2024.

The AFRL Combustion Devices Branch within the Rocket Propulsion Division, Aerospace Systems Directorate, seeks to fill a mid-level position at DR-02 or DR-03 levels (depending on qualifications and experience) as Multiphase Flow Scientist. The position is located at the Rocket Test Site in Leuhman Ridge, Edwards AFB, CA.

For more than 60 years, the AFRL’s Rocket Propulsion Division test site at Edwards AFB has contributed to several technological developments in rocket engines, including those of Saturn, Titan, Space Shuttle, and all major intercontinental ballistic missiles and current space launchers. Today, the site continues to enable technological leaps in hypersonics, solid rocket boosters, in-space propulsion, and liquid rockets for defense and commercial space in support for the Air & Space Forces. 

The Combustion Devices Branch in AFRL’s Rocket Propulsion Division supports fundamental and applied combustion science & technology for the Air & Space Forces. Our work ranges from massively parallel numerical simulations and machine learning/data assimilation of complex chemically reacting turbulent flows in rocket engines, to additive manufacturing of next-generation space propulsion systems and experimental reacting-flow testing in facilities unique in the nation. We are also heavy users of the Department of Defense’s High-Performance Computing (HPC) resources.  

We are searching for a high-performing, highly-motivated individual with a strong scientific research background on computational multiphase flow physics to become a new member of the Combustion Devices Branch. In this role, you will apply your skills to solve complex scientific problems that will advance our nation’s Rocket Power of Tomorrow. 

• 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.    
• 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.  

• 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.
• The ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance. 
• Strong fundamental knowledge of 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.
• This position is an Acquisition Professional Development Program (APDP) position requiring level 1-Foundational, Non-Critical certification in Engineering & Technical Management. The selectee will have 24-months to meet APDP requirements or a waiver must be obtained. Government applicants for this position must list any acquisition certifications and status as an acquisition corps member in their resume. 

• 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 multidisciplinary applied engineering problems and advance the mission of the Air & Space Forces.     

(Req # 34093)

• Other Significant Facts: 
  - Must be able to travel <10% of the time. 
  - Relocation or other incentives may be offered for this position.