Research Assistant

Worcester Polytech; Maryland; On-site; USD 23,866 - 33,992; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings plans

Paid time off

Job summary

Worcester Polytechnic Institute seeks qualified candidates for multiple Research Assistant positions in the Multiscale Thermal Fluids Laboratory. Applicants with a BS or MS in relevant fields are encouraged to apply for immediate openings.

This role involves engaging in cutting-edge clean energy research focused on droplet dynamics and energy analysis of commercial buildings. Successful candidates will have opportunities to work in a collaborative and innovative environment.

Qualifications

• Hold a BS or MS in relevant engineering fields.
• Experience in experimental fluid dynamics and image processing for Project 1.
• Experience applicable for Project 2 in civil or architectural engineering.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experimental studies on sessile droplet behavior.
• Analyze energy performance of commercial buildings.
• Engage in clean energy research projects.

Skills

Experimental fluid dynamics

Image processing

Education

BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering

BS or MS in Aerospace Engineering

BS or MS in Chemical Engineering

BS or MS in Civil Engineering

BS or MS in Architectural Engineering

Job description

JOB TITLE

Research Assistant

LOCATION

Worcester

DEPARTMENT NAME

Mechanical & Materials Engineering - JM

DIVISION NAME

Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPI

SUMMARY

Multiple PhD Research Assistant positions are available in the Multiscale Thermal Fluids Laboratory (MTFL) within the Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI). These are immediate openings, and priority will be given to applicants who can begin the program right away. Compensation: $21 hourly. This position is supported through external funding.

PROJECT 1: Droplet Dynamics

This project involves the experimental study of sessile droplet behavior in shear gas flows, using high-speed imaging and image processing techniques.

PROJECT 2: Energy Analysis of Commercial Buildings

This project focuses on the energy performance analysis of commercial buildings in the region, with the broader goal of promoting clean energy systems.

Both projects fall under the overarching theme of clean energy research. The Mechanical and Materials Engineering Department at WPI enrolls approximately 1,000 undergraduate and 200 graduate students. WPI is located in Worcester, MA, a dynamic and growing city just one hour from Boston.

Eligibility Requirements

• Project 1: Applicants must hold a BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Chemical Engineering, with experience in experimental fluid dynamics and image processing.
• Project 2: Applicants must hold a BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or Architectural Engineering.

Application Instructions

Interested applicants should include the following documents: Complete resume (PDF format), BS and MS transcripts, GRE and TOEFL scores (for international applicants), and names and email addresses of three references. Contact Dr. Mehdi Mortazavi ([e-mail]) for any inquiries.

Details about Dr. Mortazavi’s research can be found at https://wp.wpi.edu/mtfl/

FLSA STATUS

United States of America (Non-Exempt)

EEO Statement

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.

ABOUT WPI

WPI is a vibrant and diverse community of extraordinary students, talented and dedicated staff, and world‑renowned faculty. Along with its state‑of‑the‑art research facilities, WPI offers competitive and comprehensive employee benefit programs, including paid time off, health insurance, life and long‑term disability insurance, retirement savings plans, tuition assistance, flexible spending accounts, and a working environment that prioritizes mental health and well‑being. It is a community committed to civility and respect—making inclusion and belonging a reality for everyone on its campus.