Energy Institute Research Scientist – Open Pool

Colorado State University•Fort Collins, CO

7d•$80,000 - $130,000•Onsite

About The Position

The CSU Energy Institute includes the Zimmerle Research Group, a leading research group focused on detecting and preventing emissions from oil and natural gas (O&G) operations, from production through distribution and end use. The group operates the Modernizing Energy Technology Experiment Center (METEC), which concentrates on a wide range of emissions, testing, and solution research and development. This position is located at the Powerhouse Energy Campus and METEC facility, both of which are industrial working environments. The role involves collaborating with other research scientists and teams, leading the development of test methods and measurement systems for air emissions research, and interfacing with industry and academic partners to develop measurement and analysis campaigns, test protocols, and associated equipment. The position will also lead field measurement campaigns, mentor students and staff, and engage in workshops, industry group meetings, and academic conferences. Additionally, there may be opportunities to develop student learning activities in air emissions research, teach courses, and supervise senior design teams.

Requirements

PhD in engineering, physics, or related physical science, mathematics or computer science field.
Strong understanding of physics, physical systems and practical application of algorithms and simulation technology.
Demonstrated experience acquiring and analyzing data from diverse sources.
Experience in the computer simulation of complex systems using state-of-the-art simulation tools.
Demonstrably strong software skills for merging data, simulation methods, physical measurements, and qualitative inputs.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Experience working with industrial or laboratory partners in a collaborative project.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in the dynamic simulation of pressurized gas and fluid systems, or, in the trajectory planning, navigation, and adaptive response of mobile robotic platforms.
High level of mastery of scientific computing and experience in multiple programming languages (C, MATLAB, Python, etc.) and/or simulation environments (Simulink, Promax, Aspen, etc.).
Demonstrated competence with statistically uncertain data.
Demonstrated experience iteratively developing complex software systems, such as digital twins.
Demonstrated experience in creative visualization and animation of system operation and results.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment.
Experience with data analysis, scientific writing, or specialized research techniques.

Responsibilities

Develop digital twin, statistical, and similar simulation models in collaboration with a broad team of lead scientists, hardware engineers, and industry.
Identify foundational models and science required for digital twin systems. Instantiate these models into working software meeting defined objectives for accuracy, performance, suitability, and open source requirements.
Integrate digital twin development with hardware simulations including complex sensor and instrument systems, such as robotic/autonomous systems.
Work in field and remotely with industry partners stakeholders to acquire field data necessary to validate simulation models, including planning and conducting measurement and analysis activities.
Prepare presentations/reports required by sponsors, present to broad audiences at conferences & workshops, and prepare manuscripts for journal publication and conference proceedings.
Accomplish project objectives within budget and timeline constraints of 1-3 projects simultaneously.
Coordinate between multiple parties to achieve research objectives, interface with vendors and service providers including planning meetings and site visits, and supervise, coach and mentor students and junior staff during laboratory and field experiments.
Identify research needs and opportunities, lead development of research plans, budgets, and proposals for future research work.