The Multiscale Multiphysics Modeling and Data-Driven Analysis of Thermofluids (M3TFluiD) Lab at Cleveland State University is seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant or Research Associate (postdoctoral) to support a multi-year, federally funded, multidisciplinary project in the area of high-temperature thermal analysis and computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The successful candidate (U.S. Citizen only) will contribute to numerical modeling and simulation of advanced thermal systems relevant to next-generation aerospace applications. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop simplified 2D/quasi-3D computational domains for thermal simulations of coated composites.

• Perform CFD simulations using ANSYS Fluent (or comparable tools) to evaluate conduction, convection, and radiative heat transfer behavior under extreme thermal conditions.

• Map temperature-dependent thermophysical properties and define relevant boundary conditions representative of high-temperature environments.

• Conduct parametric analyses to assess sensitivity to coating thickness, heat flux, and exposure time using a design-of-experiments (DOE) approach.

• Collaborate with experimental teams to compare simulation results with test data and refine modeling assumptions.

• Generate reports, figures, and documentation supporting proposal submissions and final project deliverables.

Preferred Qualifications:

• M.S. or Ph.D. (or currently pursuing) in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.

• Experience with CFD tools such as ANSYS Fluent or OpenFOAM.

• Familiarity with high-temperature materials or coatings is a plus.

• Strong background in heat transfer, especially conduction and radiation modeling.

• Prior experience with mesh generation, boundary condition formulation, and HPC simulations is desirable.

• This position does not accept international researchers or permanent resident cardholders.

Duration:
This is an 18-month, grant-funded position with potential for extension depending on project outcomes and funding.

Application Materials:

• CV (2 pages max)

• Cover letter (1 page; research interests, qualifications)

• Unofficial transcripts, sample publications, and relevant certifications