Assistant Research Scientist
University of Michigan
How to Apply
A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.
Job Summary
The Gorodetsky Research Group invites applications for the position of Assistant Research Scientist (ARS). We are seeking a highly motivated and exceptionally talented researcher to join our team and help pioneer the next generation of computational science for complex multi-physics systems.
This position offers a unique opportunity to lead and contribute to high-impact research at the intersection of plasma physics, high-performance computing, and advanced data science. The successful candidate will play a central role in advancing our fundamental understanding of plasma systems and will help shape the group's strategic vision to advance this area. This role is designed for a researcher aiming to build a strong presence in the academic community, drive innovation, and mentor future leaders in the field.
Who We Are
Michigan Engineers are world-class educators, researchers, students and staff who strive to build a people-first future. As part of a top national public research institution, Michigan Engineering's mission is to provide scientific and technological leadership to the people of the world, develop intellectually curious and socially conscious minds, create collaborative solutions to societal problems, and promote an inclusive and innovative community of service for the common good.
Responsibilities*
- Advance the Frontiers of Computational Science: Lead the development of next-generation, high-fidelity predictive models for multi-physics systems, with an initial focus on plasma modeling for electric propulsion. This involves creating and deploying simulation frameworks for ongoing projects targeting the understanding of various devices and phenomena.
- Innovate in Uncertainty Quantification and Scalable Inference: Develop new algorithms for scalable uncertainty quantification (UQ) and Bayesian inference and apply them to challenging simulation problems. The goal is to produce robust, validated models that can reliably bridge the gap between simulation and physical experiments.
- Contribute to Center-Level Initiatives: Act as a key contributor to large-scale, center-level research activities within the Gorodetsky group. This includes collaborating across disciplines to tackle grand challenges in computational science and ensuring our tools and methodologies remain at the cutting edge. It also includes organizing and leading the direction of the research.
- Mentor the Next Generation of Researchers: Guide and mentor graduate and undergraduate students working at the exciting intersection of plasma physics, uncertainty quantification, statistical inference, and machine learning/AI. Foster a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment that encourages creativity and rigorous scientific inquiry.
- Build a Leading Research Program: Play an integral role in establishing the group as a national leader in computational plasma modeling. The ARS will be expected to help the group build a strong presence in this area by co-authoring research proposals, engaging with program managers, and securing the external funding necessary to build a sustainable, high-impact research program.
Required Qualifications*
- A Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a related computational science field.
- A demonstrated record of excellence and innovation in the computational modeling of plasma systems, particularly Hall thrusters.
- Deep expertise across multiple modeling fidelities, including both fluid and high-fidelity kinetic (e.g., Particle-in-Cell) methods.
- Proven experience in the development and application of advanced data-science techniques, including Bayesian inference, uncertainty quantification, and machine learning.
- Proficiency in high-performance computing environments, including experience with GPU-accelerated codes.
- A strong publication record in top-tier journals and conferences.
- Excellent communication skills and a desire to work collaboratively in a team-oriented research environment.
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.