Research Associate Jobs

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About The Position

The Department of Mechanical Engineering at Penn State is seeking a highly motivated Associate Research Professor. The role conducts externally funded research on high-temperature, high-pressure, transient two-phase flow and heat transfer involving liquid-vapor phase change across different flow regimes, including dryout at the critical heat flux (CHF) point. Research includes pre-dryout and post-dryout heat transfer and the impact of droplet dynamics on heat transfer. The position also designs new test facilities to quantify specific features, trains graduate students in relevant research areas, and teaches classes in thermal sciences. This is a term position. The length of the term will be discussed during the interview process; continuation beyond that term depends on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding. Employment requires successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Requirements

  • Must hold an active security clearance.
  • PhD in Mechanical, Nuclear, or Chemical Engineering, or equivalent, by the appointment start date.
  • Experience performing high-temperature rod bundle experiments under a variety of reflood conditions.
  • Clear understanding of fundamental two-phase heat transfer under DFFB and IAFB conditions.
  • Familiarity with measuring liquid droplets under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions.
  • Ten or more years of experience in experimental studies.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct externally funded research on high-temperature, high-pressure, transient two-phase flow and heat transfer involving liquid-vapor phase change across different two-phase flow regimes, including dryout at the CHF point.
  • Investigate pre-dryout and post-dryout heat transfer.
  • Explore the impact of droplet dynamics on resulting heat transfer.
  • Design a new test facility needed to quantify specific features.
  • Train graduate students in relevant research areas.
  • Teach classes in thermal sciences.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Robust retirement plans.
  • 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses and children.

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What This Job Offers

Job Type

Full-time

Career Level

Senior

Education Level

Ph.D. or professional degree

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