Postdoctoral Associate

Details

• Posted: 13-Jul-25
• Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
• Type: Full-time
• Categories: Research - Laboratory/Non-Laboratory;
  Staff/Administrative
• Internal Number: 25074

POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE, Plasma Science and Fusion Center (PSFC), to lead the development of a rigorous verification and validation (V&V) framework for FESTIM, an open-source simulation tool for modelling hydrogen isotope transport in materials. The role is central to enhancing the scientific reliability and benchmarking capacity of FESTIM in support of fusion fuel cycle modelling and broader hydrogen technologies. Will contribute to establishing FESTIM as a trusted, community-driven tool by designing Multiphysics validation campaigns and cross-code comparison studies.

Lead the development of the V&V framework for FESTIM; design validation campaigns and cross-code comparison studies; engage with open-source and fusion research communities; present findings at international conferences; ensure scientific reliability and benchmarking capacity of FESTIM; collaborate with stakeholders; maintain confidentiality; oversee appointment for two years with possibility of renewal.

• PhD in nuclear engineering, applied physics, computational science, or closely related field.
• Experience in Multiphysics modelling, numerical methods for PDEs, and code verification and validation.
• Proficiency in Python and scientific computing, and experience with finite element methods, preferably using FEniCS or DOLFINx.
• Strong analytical and communication skills; ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Willingness to present at international conferences and engage with open-source and fusion research communities.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Experience with tritium transport modelling, hydrogen in materials, or fusion blanket concepts.
• Familiarity with data assimilation, uncertainty quantification, or large-scale benchmarking efforts.
• Prior involvement in open-source software development and community support.

The appointment will be for two years with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory performance. The position will remain open until a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired. In addition to applying via the MIT website, applicants are asked to email a cover letter and CV and the names and contact information of three references to Dr. Remi Delaporte-Mathurin at remidm with subject line “Postdoc Application”.

Job #25074