Careers @ MSU

Position Summary

Overview:

The Michigan State University Department of Mechanical Engineering is seeking a postdoctoral research associate to support experimental and computational research on advanced internal combustion engines, with an emphasis on turbulent-jet ignition systems and structural-mechanics modeling of cylinder-kit components.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in engine dynamometer testing and high-fidelity physics-based modeling, with a focus on the intersection of combustion, fluid, and structural dynamics.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Design, execute, and analyze engine dynamometer experiments, including instrumentation, data acquisition, and test planning

• Develop and maintain physics-based modeling tools, including custom solvers written in MATLAB, Python, Fortran, or C/C++

• Perform detailed post-processing of pressure, flow, and structural response data

• Calibrate and evaluate 1-D engine models (e.g., gas exchange, scavenging, wave dynamics) against experimental measurements (2 and 4-stroke engine experience)

• Lead technical contributions to journal publications, conference papers, and sponsor deliverables

• Collaborate with industry partners and multidisciplinary research teams

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate -Mechanical Engineering or closely related

Minimum Requirements

• Completed requirements for a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field
• Strong background in internal combustion engines, combustion, or gas dynamics
• Demonstrated experience with both experimental testing and numerical modeling
• Proficiency in at least one scientific programming language (MATLAB, Python, Fortran, or C/C++)
• Experience analyzing pressure traces, PV diagrams, or transient engine data
• Experience calibrating or validating 1-D engine simulations using GT-Power for 2 and 4-stroke engines
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with two-stroke engines or unconventional engine architectures
• Background in structural dynamics modeling of cylinder kit components.
• Experience with the Cylinder Kit Analysis System for Engines (CASE) by Mid-Michigan Research.
• Familiarity with contact mechanics or nonlinear dynamic systems
• Prior collaboration with industry or applied research sponsors

Required Application Materials

CV and cover letter

Website

me.msu.edu

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.