Research Scientist

Job Description

We are seeking a Fixed-term Research Engineer to support experimental research in high-speed aerothermodynamics, with emphasis on multiphase flow and flow instability in hypersonic and supersonic boundary layers.

The role involves experimental setup, execution, and analysis of boundary-layer transition and instability experiments in high-speed flow facilities. Responsibilities include operation of shock tubes and related high-speed flow systems, development and execution of diagnostic measurements (e.g., Krypton Tagging Velocimetry, FLDI, BOS), and processing of experimental data.

The engineer will contribute to laboratory work involving optics, laser systems, high-speed imaging, and sensor instrumentation, as well as develop scripting tools for data reduction and analysis pipelines. The position requires collaboration with graduate students and principal investigators to support grant milestones and produce publication-quality figures and documentation.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, build, align, and maintain optical and laser-based diagnostic systems for high-speed aerothermodynamic experiments, including integration of imaging systems, sensors, and data acquisition (DAQ) hardware.

• Plan, prepare, and execute experiments in shock tube and/or supersonic/hypersonic test facilities, including pre-test verification, run coordination, and post-test system teardown and diagnostics.

• Conduct high-speed and time-resolved data acquisition, and perform processing and analysis using scripting tools (e.g., MATLAB and/or Python), including image processing, signal analysis, and uncertainty quantification.

• Develop and maintain reproducible data pipelines for batch processing, ensuring traceability, data integrity, and adherence to best practices in experimental data management.

• Maintain laboratory safety standards, including compliance with laser, high-pressure, vacuum, and electrical safety protocols; update standard operating procedures (SOPs), equipment logs, and calibration records.

• Contribute to the preparation of technical reports, figures, presentations, and publication-quality visualizations supporting grant deliverables and research dissemination.

• Support coordination and mentoring of undergraduate and graduate researchers in experimental setup, diagnostics alignment, and data analysis methods.

• Collaborate with principal investigators and research staff to ensure timely completion of experimental milestones aligned with funded grant objectives.

Department

Mechanical Engineering

Compensation Range

In compliance with the New Jersey Wage Transparency Act, the semi-monthly base range for this position is $8500/month. This range represents the University’s good faith estimate of possible compensation at the time of posting. Stevens Institute of Technology determines compensation based on factors including the position’s scope and responsibilities, the candidate’s experience, education, skills, internal equity, market data, and organizational considerations. The final salary will be set considering departmental budget, qualifications, and relevant credentials. This pay range represents base pay only and excludes additional forms of compensation, such as incentives, stipends, or other applicable pay components. For a full overview of our benefits offerings, please refer to the Stevens Institute of Technology Benefits Guidebook, available at:

Benefits Guidebook

EEO Statement:

Stevens Institute of Technology is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Accordingly, Stevens adheres to an employment policy that prohibits discriminatory practices or harassment against candidates or employees based on legally impermissible factor(s) including, but not necessarily limited to, race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, nationality, citizenship status, age, ancestry, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, familial status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information, pregnancy or pregnancy-related medical conditions, disability, or any protected military or veteran status. 

Stevens is building a diverse faculty, staff, and student body and strongly encourages applications from people of all backgrounds. Stevens is a federal contractor under the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as well as other federal statutes. Stevens seeks candidates who will contribute to a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students, faculty and staff.