Research Associate - Computational Analysis of Hypersonic Systems

Job Summary

The Center for National Security Initiatives at CU Boulder is seeking a research associate in Computational Analysis of Hypersonic Systems. This position will support the growth of the campus's National Security research enterprise, focusing on developing groundbreaking research, identifying new sponsored research opportunities, and preparing and executing strategic proposals.

Computational Analysis of Hypersonic Systems

Requires expertise in the development and application of computational tools for analysis of various aspects of hypersonic vehicle system performance and phenomena including aerothermodynamics, plasma, radiation, materials, structures, propulsion, and mission analysis. The successful candidate will work as part of a multi-disciplinary team on a variety of projects related to national security and be proficient in the development of simulation capabilities within the context of a software best practices environment (e.g., version control, build systems, continuous integration and deployment, computational environment management, etc.).

Who We Are

The Center for National Security Initiatives (NSI) at the University of Colorado Boulder provides high-impact national security research and workforce development enabled by world-class research scientists and essential infrastructure. The Center addresses the ever-increasing demand for qualified and experienced defense professionals in Colorado and across the nation by creating a prime opportunity for on-demand research collaboration in the national security research enterprise.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

- Develop and execute on research proposals, key research tasks, and deliverables in support of DoD, IC, and Aerospace and Defense Industry customers. - Develop a nationally recognized research program in National Security that strategically supports the missions of NSI and the National Security enterprise. - Provide technical leadership of research projects or project subtasks and coordinate across academic departments and research groups for interdisciplinary efforts. - Summarize results and provide required documentation and SW/HW deliverables to sponsors. - Engage Government and Industry sponsors, with support from NSI Staff, to shape strategic research opportunities and win research contracts. - Understand and communicate key challenges and R&D priorities regarding DoD and other national security organizations to develop the CU Boulder applied research portfolio. - Provide recommended prioritization of new sponsored research opportunities to the NSI leadership team - Establish and leverage professional network with key customers, influencers, and executive decision makers in the national security community and gain insight into strategic direction, policies, R&D priorities, allocated budgets, and plans associated with relevant national security programs.

What You Should Know

- Due to the nature, scope and sponsor of the work, the position is limited to only U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees, with the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance. - For more information about clearance requirements please visit: https://www.dcsa.mil/Personnel-Security/Background-Investigations-for-Applicants/Investigations-Clearance-Process/. - Travel out-of-state will be required. - Irregular work hours including evenings and weekends may be required.

What We Can Offer

We offer a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, along with a generous benefits package.

Benefits

At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County’s largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.

Be Statements

We require a PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a field relevant to the given focus area.

What We Require

- PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a field relevant to the given focus area. - Research Associate: A minimum of three years of experience in Academia, or the Aerospace and Defense Industry, or Government in a research role.

What You Will Need

- Demonstrated record of success and credibility within both the national security and academic communities. - Excellent verbal and written communications skills; strong interpersonal skills. - Demonstrated high-level critical thinking and organizational skills. - Ability to work within a complex, dynamic, matrixed structure across colleges and university administration and externally with Government and Industry partners.

What We Would Like You to Have

- Experience working in a collaborative and interdisciplinary role at, or with, an academic or research institution. - Proven track record leading research efforts in support of DoD or Aerospace and Defense Industry. - Program management, Contracting, and/or Business Development experience in the Federal Government or Industry. - Active and or previous U.S. security clearance with the ability to acquire clearance. - For more information about clearance requirements please visit: https://www.dcsa.mil/Personnel-Security/Background-Investigations-for-Applicants/Investigations-Clearance-Process/.

Special Instructions

To apply, please submit the following materials: - Resume or CV. - Cover Letter. (Optional) Transcripts/Proof of Degree: If you are selected as the finalist, your degree will be verified by the CU Boulder Campus Human Resources Department using an approved online vendor. However, if your degree was obtained outside of the United States, please submit an English-translated version as an Optional document. Please apply by 7/29/2026 for consideration. Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs.