Multiphase Flow Computational Scientist

Job Overview

This job announcement will be accepting candidate submissions until 12 March 26
. OPEN TO CURRENT AFRL CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES ONLY.

The AFRL Rocket Engine Technologies Branch within the Rocket Science and Technology Division, Aerospace Systems Directorate, seeks a mid-level Multiphase Flow Scientist (DR‑02 or DR‑03 level depending on qualifications and experience). The position is located at the Rocket Laboratory at Edwards AFB, CA.

For more than 60 years, the AFRL Rocket Laboratory at Edwards AFB has contributed to several technology 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 technology leaps in hypersonics, solid rocket boosters, in‑space propulsion, and liquid rockets for defense and commercial space in support of the Air & Space Forces.

The Rocket Engine Technologies Branch supports fundamental and applied combustion science & technology for the Air & Space Forces. We are searching for a high‑performing, highly‑motivated individual with a strong scientific research background on computational multiphase flow physics to advance Rotating Detonation Rocket Engine (RDRE) propulsion.

• Perform cutting edge, massively parallel numerical simulations of multiphase flow physics relevant 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 boil‑off, 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 and advancement of RDRE technology.
• Analyze and interpret large amounts of simulation data to inform the design of rocket engines and flight vehicles.
• Work closely with the 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.
• Must be able to travel.
• Position is an Acquisition Professional Development Program (APDP) position requiring level 1‑Foundational, Non‑Critical certification in Engineering & Technical Management. Selectees will have 24 months to meet APDP requirements or a waiver must be obtained.

• 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 close to graduation from their Ph.D. programs will also be considered.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.

• Strong fundamental knowledge on multiphase flow physics and their applications to rocket propulsion or high‑speed systems.
• Hands‑on scientific research experience using HPC capabilities within the context of multiphase flow physics.
• Experience 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 journal papers and technical seminars.
• 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 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 multi‑disciplinary applied engineering problems and advance the mission of the Air & Space Forces.

Yes, this position is eligible for situational telework; as determined by agency policy.

No.

0861

(Requisition No. 17814)