Research Scientist

Worcester Polytechnic Institute’s Department of Civil, Environmental, and Architectural Engineering seeks a Research Scientist specializing in Indoor Airflow, Ventilation, and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). The role begins in Fall 2026 or Spring 2027 and centers on research that integrates CFD modeling (primarily ANSYS Fluent and OpenFOAM) with laboratory measurements and Machine Learning to address real-world building and indoor environmental challenges.

Responsibilities

• Conduct CFD simulations of indoor airflow, ventilation, and air distribution.
• Combine CFD modeling with laboratory-based measurements and AI tools.
• Validate CFD models through experimental data and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.
• Collaborate on research projects related to indoor environmental quality, thermal comfort, and building performance.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Architectural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong research experience with CFD, preferably using ANSYS Fluent.
• Knowledge of fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and turbulence modeling.
• Programming skills for data analysis, model development, or simulation workflows.
• Record of peer-reviewed publications in CFD, indoor environments, ventilation, or related areas.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with indoor airflow, ventilation, HVAC, or air distribution modeling.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory measurements or experimental validation.
• Familiarity with OpenFOAM or other CFD tools.
• Interest in indoor air quality, thermal comfort, or building environmental performance.

Benefits

• Robust retirement match.
• Wellness perks.
• Tuition assistance.

Pay

$50,000 – $60,000 per year, based on related experience, expertise, and internal equity.