Research Support in Fluid Dynamics

Researcher Position

The Researcher will support externally funded research activities within the Department of Mechanical Engineering during Summer 2026. The position will assist faculty and graduate researchers with experimental, computational, and analytical tasks associated with ongoing sponsored research projects in areas related to fluid mechanics, thermal sciences, mechanics, or related engineering disciplines. The position provides hands-on research experience in a laboratory and/or computational research environment.

Responsibilities may include assisting with experiments, data analysis, computational modeling, technical documentation, literature review, and preparation of research materials. The position is intended for a rising senior majoring in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering with strong technical and problem-solving skills.

Research Support 50%

• Assist faculty and graduate students with ongoing sponsored research activities.
• Support experimental setup, operation, and troubleshooting of laboratory equipment.
• Assist with collection, processing, and analysis of experimental or computational data.
• Maintain organized research records and documentation.

Computational and Analytical Activities 30%

• Assist with data processing, visualization, and computational modeling activities.
• Support development of scripts, spreadsheets, or software tools for research analysis.
• Conduct literature reviews and summarize technical findings relevant to project activities.

Laboratory and Project Support 20%

• Assist with laboratory organization, equipment preparation, and general research support tasks.
• Participate in research group meetings and technical discussions.
• Support preparation of figures, presentations, and technical reports associated with funded research projects.

• Current undergraduate student in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• Rising senior standing preferred.
• Strong academic performance in engineering coursework.
• Ability to work in a laboratory and/or computational research environment.
• Ability to follow laboratory safety procedures and research protocols.

• Strong technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Familiarity with engineering analysis, laboratory methods, or computational tools.
• Ability to organize and manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and basic technical software tools.

• Prior undergraduate research, laboratory, or design-project experience.
• Experience with MATLAB, Python, Solid Works, CAD software, or other engineering software tools.
• Interest in pursuing graduate study or research-related careers.

Applicants should be prepared to upload the following documents when applying online within the My

Experience:

Resume/CV section of the application: (Maximum of 5 Documents)

• Resume/CV

Compensation Pay Range: $20 per hour

Please be advised that this position is supported by external sponsor funding. As such, continued employment in this role is contingent upon the availability of those external funds. If, for any reason, the sponsor funding is reduced or discontinued, employment may be subject to modification or termination in accordance with applicable policies and procedures.

Location:

Durham