Postdoctoral Research Associate

University of Texas at Dallas • Richardson, TX

39d • $57,000 - $60,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Flow Dynamics and Turbulence (FDT) Laboratory, within the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Texas at Dallas, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher position focused on laboratory investigations of small-scale turbulence above and below surface waves under high-wind conditions. We seek a highly motivated, independent, and creative researcher with a strong background in air-sea interactions and experimental fluid mechanics, particularly in optical flow visualization techniques. The successful candidate will conduct advanced laboratory experiments to investigate the dynamics of small-scale turbulence in the coupled air-sea boundary layer and its impact on air-sea flux transfers. This will be accomplished by a combination of novel experiments based on particle image velocimetry (PIV), laser-induced fluorescence (LIF), high-speed imaging, and schlieren/shadowgraphy techniques. The resulting dataset will support the development of sea-state-dependent parameterizations of air-sea fluxes.

Requirements

• Ph.D in a related field.

Nice To Haves

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Physical Oceanography, or related field by the time of appointment.
• Demonstrated research experience with a record of peer-reviewed publications in air-sea interactions, ocean waves and sea spray dynamics, and/or atmospheric and oceanic turbulence.
• Demonstrated expertise in experimental fluid mechanics, with priority given to candidates experienced in PIV, high-speed imaging, shadowgraphy, and/or Schlieren techniques.
• Experience developing LabVIEW scripts and APIs for target-specific applications, working with data acquisition (DAQ) systems, and proficiency in MATLAB, Python, and LabVIEW.
• Capable of working independently and as part of a collaborative research team, with excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct Experimental Research: Design, execute, and analyze laboratory experiments focused on surface-wave and turbulence measurements using advanced optical and laser-based techniques.
• Develop Measurement Techniques: Develop and refine experimental methodologies that integrate complementary techniques to quantify surface waves and their corresponding processes, including turbulence, wave breaking, bubble entrainment, and spray generation.
• Experimental Data Analysis: Utilize MATLAB, Python, and LabVIEW to develop DAQ systems, analyze experimental data, and create custom control and processing scripts.
• Research Dissemination: Prepare and publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at academic and professional conferences.
• Collaborative Research Projects: Work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary research team on projects related to air-sea interactions, and contribute to proposal development, student mentoring, and project management.
• Maintain Laboratory Equipment: Ensure proper operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment, including troubleshooting technical issues related to fluid mechanics experimental setups.
• Mentorship and Training: Provide guidance to graduate and undergraduate students in experimental techniques, data analysis, and research methodologies.

Benefits

• Competitive Salary
• Tuition Benefits
• Internal Training
• BCBS PPO Medical insurance - 100% paid for full-time employees
• PPO and DHMO Dental Insurance Plan - PPO plans include ortho benefits
• Vision Insurance
• Long and short-term disability
• TRS Retirement Plan - defined benefit plan offering lifetime annuity upon retirement
• Voluntary Retirement Plan Options - additional savings opportunities with Tax-Sheltered Annuity Plans and Deferred Compensation Plans
• Dental/Vision/AD&D
• Paid time off
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Winter Break
• Fertility Benefits

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees