The University of Texas at Dallas
Postdoctoral Research Associate
The University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, United States, 75215
Job Summary
The Flow Dynamics and Turbulence (FDT) Laboratory, within the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Texas at Dallas, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher position focused on laboratory investigations of small-scale turbulence above and below surface waves under high-wind conditions. We seek a highly motivated, independent, and creative researcher with a strong background in air‑sea interactions and experimental fluid mechanics, particularly in optical flow visualization techniques. The successful candidate will conduct advanced laboratory experiments to investigate the dynamics of small-scale turbulence in the coupled air–sea boundary layer and its impact on air–sea flux transfers. This will be accomplished by a combination of novel experiments based on particle image velocimetry, laser‑induced fluorescence, high‑speed imaging, and schlieren/shadowgraphy techniques. The resulting dataset will support the development of sea‑state‑dependent parameterizations of air‑sea fluxes.
Minimum Education and Experience Ph.D. in a related field.
Preferred Education and Experience
Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Physical Oceanography, or related field by the time of appointment.
Demonstrated research experience with a record of peer‑reviewed publications in air‑sea interactions, ocean waves and sea spray dynamics, and/or atmospheric and oceanic turbulence.
Demonstrated expertise in experimental fluid mechanics, with priority given to candidates experienced in PIV, high‑speed imaging, shadowgraphy, and/or Schlieren techniques.
Experience developing LabVIEW scripts and APIs for target‑specific applications, working with data acquisition systems, and proficiency in MATLAB, Python, and LabVIEW.
Capable of working independently and as part of a collaborative research team, with excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
Other Qualifications To the extent this position requires the holder to research, work on, or have access to critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code, the ability to maintain the security or integrity of the critical infrastructure is a minimum qualification to be hired and to continue to be employed in the position.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Conduct experimental research: design, execute, and analyze laboratory experiments focused on surface‑wave and turbulence measurements using advanced optical and laser‑based techniques.
Develop measurement techniques: refine experimental methodologies that integrate complementary techniques to quantify surface waves and their corresponding processes, including turbulence, wave breaking, bubble entrainment, and spray generation.
Experimental data analysis: utilize MATLAB, Python, and LabVIEW to develop DAQ systems, analyze experimental data, and create custom control and processing scripts.
Research dissemination: prepare and publish research findings in peer‑reviewed journals and present results at academic and professional conferences.
Collaborative research projects: work with a multidisciplinary research team on projects related to air‑sea interactions, contribute to proposal development, student mentoring, and project management.
Maintain laboratory equipment: ensure proper operation and maintenance, troubleshooting technical issues related to fluid mechanics experimental setups.
Mentorship and training: guide graduate and undergraduate students in experimental techniques, data analysis, and research methodologies.
Physical Demands and Working Conditions Physical activities and working conditions are typical for a laboratory research position and include handling equipment, standing, and occasional travel.
Additional Information The initial appointment will be for one year, with the possibility of renewal for up to three years, depending on performance and funding availability. A remote work schedule is not available for this position.
What We Can Offer UT Dallas is an Equal Opportunity Employer with an employee‑friendly and supportive work environment. Our comprehensive compensation and benefits package effective as of your hire date includes:
Internal Training
BCBS PPO Medical insurance – 100% paid for full‑time employees
PPO and DHMO Dental Insurance Plan – PPO plans include orthodontic benefits
Vision Insurance
Long and short‑term disability
TRS Retirement Plan – defined benefit plan offering lifetime annuity upon retirement
Voluntary Retirement Plan Options – additional savings opportunities with tax‑sheltered annuity plans and deferred compensation plans
Paid time off
Paid Holidays
Paid Winter Break
Fertility Benefits
Equal Opportunity Statement The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to providing an educational, living, and working environment that is welcoming, respectful, and inclusive of all members of the university community. UT Dallas does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its services, programs, activities, employment, and education, including in admission and enrollment. The University is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodation in the employment application and interview process, contact the ADA Coordinator. For inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies, contact the Title IX Coordinator.
Supplemental Questions Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
Required Documents
Cover Letter / Letter of Application
Curriculum Vitae
Research Statement
Optional Documents
Resume
Unofficial Transcripts
Writing Sample
Other Document
Veteran Employment Preference – Form DD‑214
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Minimum Education and Experience Ph.D. in a related field.
Preferred Education and Experience
Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Physical Oceanography, or related field by the time of appointment.
Demonstrated research experience with a record of peer‑reviewed publications in air‑sea interactions, ocean waves and sea spray dynamics, and/or atmospheric and oceanic turbulence.
Demonstrated expertise in experimental fluid mechanics, with priority given to candidates experienced in PIV, high‑speed imaging, shadowgraphy, and/or Schlieren techniques.
Experience developing LabVIEW scripts and APIs for target‑specific applications, working with data acquisition systems, and proficiency in MATLAB, Python, and LabVIEW.
Capable of working independently and as part of a collaborative research team, with excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
Other Qualifications To the extent this position requires the holder to research, work on, or have access to critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code, the ability to maintain the security or integrity of the critical infrastructure is a minimum qualification to be hired and to continue to be employed in the position.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Conduct experimental research: design, execute, and analyze laboratory experiments focused on surface‑wave and turbulence measurements using advanced optical and laser‑based techniques.
Develop measurement techniques: refine experimental methodologies that integrate complementary techniques to quantify surface waves and their corresponding processes, including turbulence, wave breaking, bubble entrainment, and spray generation.
Experimental data analysis: utilize MATLAB, Python, and LabVIEW to develop DAQ systems, analyze experimental data, and create custom control and processing scripts.
Research dissemination: prepare and publish research findings in peer‑reviewed journals and present results at academic and professional conferences.
Collaborative research projects: work with a multidisciplinary research team on projects related to air‑sea interactions, contribute to proposal development, student mentoring, and project management.
Maintain laboratory equipment: ensure proper operation and maintenance, troubleshooting technical issues related to fluid mechanics experimental setups.
Mentorship and training: guide graduate and undergraduate students in experimental techniques, data analysis, and research methodologies.
Physical Demands and Working Conditions Physical activities and working conditions are typical for a laboratory research position and include handling equipment, standing, and occasional travel.
Additional Information The initial appointment will be for one year, with the possibility of renewal for up to three years, depending on performance and funding availability. A remote work schedule is not available for this position.
What We Can Offer UT Dallas is an Equal Opportunity Employer with an employee‑friendly and supportive work environment. Our comprehensive compensation and benefits package effective as of your hire date includes:
Internal Training
BCBS PPO Medical insurance – 100% paid for full‑time employees
PPO and DHMO Dental Insurance Plan – PPO plans include orthodontic benefits
Vision Insurance
Long and short‑term disability
TRS Retirement Plan – defined benefit plan offering lifetime annuity upon retirement
Voluntary Retirement Plan Options – additional savings opportunities with tax‑sheltered annuity plans and deferred compensation plans
Paid time off
Paid Holidays
Paid Winter Break
Fertility Benefits
Equal Opportunity Statement The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to providing an educational, living, and working environment that is welcoming, respectful, and inclusive of all members of the university community. UT Dallas does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its services, programs, activities, employment, and education, including in admission and enrollment. The University is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodation in the employment application and interview process, contact the ADA Coordinator. For inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies, contact the Title IX Coordinator.
Supplemental Questions Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
Required Documents
Cover Letter / Letter of Application
Curriculum Vitae
Research Statement
Optional Documents
Resume
Unofficial Transcripts
Writing Sample
Other Document
Veteran Employment Preference – Form DD‑214
#J-18808-Ljbffr