Fellow (Post Doc)

About This Role:

The Alan Levin Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering at Kansas State University is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join our cutting-edge research team. The position focuses on advanced applications of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) in nuclear engineering and computational science. The researcher will develop AI-driven systems to analyze multi-modal data from nuclear reactors for diagnosis and prognosis, with a focus on multi-phase flow modeling and thermal-hydraulic simulations.
The Postdoctoral Researcher will help design data-agnostic AI frameworks to process reactor data and run autonomous simulations. The overarching goal is to improve reactor safety and operational efficiency through predictive diagnostics and autonomous decision-making. Additionally, the researcher will contribute to the development of AI-augmented multi-physics simulations to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of fluid dynamics simulations in multi-phase systems.
This position offers a unique opportunity for educational innovation, including the creation of an “AI-expert” to assist students in understanding complex simulation problems. The successful candidate will play a key role in integrating AI systems into hands-on learning environments, fostering excellence in both research and teaching.
Applicants should have a strong background in nuclear engineering, ML or AI, computational science with a passion for research and education.

We are offering an exciting postdoctoral research opportunity focused on the integration of advanced AI and ML technologies in nuclear engineering and computational science. This role involves working at the intersection of AI-driven diagnostics, multi-phase flow modeling, and thermal-hydraulic simulations, with the goal of improving reactor safety, efficiency, and decision-making processes.

As a Postdoctoral Researcher, you will lead efforts to develop data-agnostic AI systems capable of analyzing diverse data streams from nuclear reactors and autonomously running simulations. This research holds potential for significant impact on nuclear reactor operations, using predictive diagnostics and AI-enhanced multi-physics simulations. In addition, you will have the opportunity to contribute to educational advancements by creating an “AI-expert” system designed to assist students in mastering complex engineering challenges.

This role is ideal for candidates who are passionate about advancing AI applications in nuclear science and have a strong interest in both research and education. You will collaborate with a dynamic team and gain experience at the forefront of AI-driven solutions in the nuclear industry, contributing to groundbreaking work that bridges research innovation with practical teaching applications.

What You’ll Need to Succeed:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Applicants must have, or be close to earning, a doctorate in nuclear engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related discipline.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in one or more of the following areas is preferred:

-Nuclear thermal hydraulics and computational fluid dynamics (CFD)
-Machine Learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI)
-Numerical modeling
-Applied mathematics, including numerical methods and optimization
-Strong English writing skills
-Prior teaching experience in related disciplines

How to Apply:

Please submit the following documents:

1. Cover letter
2. Research statement (1-2 pages outlining past research and future research goals)
3. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
4. Three representative journal or conference papers
5. Contact information for 3 professional references

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continues until position is filled.

Anticipated Hiring Salary Range:

$60,000 - $65,000