Computational Blast Dynamics Engineer

Overview

The University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI) is seeking a dedicated Blast Dynamics Engineer to join our team at Eglin AFB, FL. This position is located at Eglin AFB, FL. The engineer will work within the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Munitions Directorate, Ordnance Division, Computational Engineering Branch (System & Energetic Effects Section). In this role, the engineer will work directly with researchers on projects within the Energetic Materials Branch (Initiation & Dynamics Section), applying numerical analysis expertise to address key research efforts related to novel and advanced explosive formulation and development for specific effects, explosive properties and dynamic behavior characterization, and the analysis of small to large-scale explosive testing.

• Work directly with researchers on projects within the Energetic Materials Branch (Initiation & Dynamics Section).
• Apply numerical analysis expertise to address key research efforts related to novel and advanced explosive formulation and development for specific effects.
• Characterize explosive properties and dynamic behavior.
• Analyze small to large-scale explosive testing.

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related scientific discipline, with minimum 1 year related experience.
• Expertise in the numerical simulation of compressible, multiphase, chemically reacting flows.
• Ability to effectively utilize high-performance computing (HPC) resources for large-scale numerical modeling.
• Knowledge of air blast modeling & simulation principles and related continuum mechanics codes.
• Effective use of verbal and written communication in a scientific/technical setting.
• Attention to detail and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work in a team of engineers and technicians.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a SECRET level security clearance.
• Due to the requirements of our research contracts with the U.S. federal government, candidates for this position must be a U.S. citizen.

• An active SECRET security clearance or equivalent.
• A strong research background, evidenced by at least five years of experience in computational combustion or a similar field, with a focus on high‑fidelity simulations of multiphase reactive flows.
• A proven track record of applying simulation expertise to relevant defense‑related problems, such as investigating detonation initiation, blast wave overpressures, and after burning effects.
• Demonstrated experience using high-performance computing (HPC) to analyze complex physical phenomena, such as particle‑laden combustion, flame propagation, and multiphase interactions.
• Proficiency in software development (Fortran, C++) and computational data analysis (Python, MATLAB) applied toward enabling and optimizing high‑fidelity simulation workflows.
• Hands‑on experience with relevant research codes (HyBurn, CTH, ALE3D), design tools (Solid Works), and visualization tools (Vis It, Para View, Tec Plot).

To apply please submit a cover letter addressing each minimum qualification and any applicable preferred qualifications that you meet.

Informed by its Catholic and Marianist mission, the University is committed to the dignity of every human being. Informed by this commitment, we seek to increase diversity in all of its forms, achieve fair outcomes, and model inclusion across our campus community. The University is committed to policies of affirmative action designed to increase the employment opportunities of individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in compliance with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act of 1973.