JOB TITLE

Research Scientist

LOCATION

Worcester

DEPARTMENT NAME

Civil, Environmental, & Architectural Engineering - NFR JM

DIVISION NAME

Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPI

JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

The Department of Civil, Environmental, and Architectural Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute invites applications for a research scientist in Indoor Airflow, Ventilation, and CFD position beginning in Fall 2026 or Spring 2027.

The position will focus on indoor airflow, ventilation, air distribution, indoor environmental quality, and computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The successful candidate will contribute to research that combines CFD modeling, primarily using ANSYS Fluent and OpenFOAM, with laboratory-based measurements and Machine Learning (AI).

We are especially interested in applicants with strong CFD experience and an interest in applying modeling and AI tools to real building and indoor environmental problems. Prior experience with laboratory experiments, airflow measurements, ventilation studies, or CFD validation is desirable, but candidates with strong CFD backgrounds and willingness to develop experimental skills are also encouraged to apply.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Minimum qualifications include:

Ph.D. in Architectural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field

Strong research experience with CFD, preferably ANSYS Fluent

Knowledge of fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and turbulence modeling

Programming skills for data analysis, model development, or simulation workflows

A record of peer-reviewed publications related to CFD, indoor environments, ventilation, or related areas

Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Preferred qualifications include:

Experience with indoor airflow, ventilation, HVAC, or air distribution modeling

Experience with laboratory measurements or experimental validation

Familiarity with Ansys Fluent and other CFD tools (e.g., OpenFOAM)

Interest in indoor air quality, thermal comfort, or building environmental performance

To apply: Please include a CV and two relevant published papers. Questions should be directed to Dr. Shichao Liu at sliu8@wpi.edu. Please use the subject line:

Research Scientist– Indoor Airflow CFD

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Salary: $50,000 - $60,000. per year. Salary is based on related experience, expertise, and internal equity. WPI’s benefits package includes a robust retirement match, wellness perks, tuition assistance and more!

FLSA STATUS

United States of America (Exempt)

WPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. It seeks individuals from all backgrounds and experiences who will contribute to a culture of creativity, collaboration, inclusion, problem solving, innovation, high performance, and change making. It is committed to maintaining a campus environment free of harassment and discrimination.

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