Postdoctoral position in numerical simulation of turbulent reactive flows

Description of the workplace

Lund University, Department of Energy Sciences is a leading center for research in energy, fluid mechanics, and sustainability.

The Division of Fluid Mechanics within the Department of Energy Sciences is a distinguished and dynamic research environment, recognized for its cutting-edge contributions to fluid mechanics, particularly in the areas of energy systems and sustainable technologies. Our division prides itself on a collaborative and innovative research culture, where interdisciplinary approaches are actively pursued.

Within our division, you will find a diverse team of experts specializing in various aspects of fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and multi-physics problems, all working toward sustainable solutions to contemporary challenges. Our facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art computational resources, enabling advanced simulations and modeling. Moreover, we actively collaborate with leading experts in laser diagnostics, automatic control, heat transfer, and life cycle assessment, both nationally and internationally, fostering a broad network of expertise and innovation.

This position offers a unique opportunity to join a vibrant community at the forefront of research in fluid mechanics and its applications in sustainable energy and environmental solutions.

Subject description

This postdoctoral position focuses on the thermal-chemical conversion of green fuels for power generation and propulsion systems. Green fuels—such as hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol—offer the potential to achieve zero-carbon emissions in applications including gas turbine engines and marine engines. The position aims to investigate the fundamental physical and chemical processes underlying the thermal-chemical conversion of green fuels, using advanced high-performance computational methods. The research will be conducted in close collaboration with international partners from both academia and industry.

Work duties

The main duty of a postdoctoral position is to conduct research. Teaching may also be included, but for no more than 20% of working hours. The position offers the opportunity to undertake three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning. The purpose of the position is to further develop independence as a researcher and to provide opportunities for continued professional growth.

In this postdoctoral role, you will have the unique opportunity to help shape the future of sustainable power production and propulsion systems through your expertise in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD).

Detailed description of work duties

• Developing Advanced CFD Models: You will be primarily responsible for creating and refining computational models that simulate hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol combustion in internal combustion engines and gas burners.
• Data Analysis and Interpretation: You will analyze simulation results and compare them with experimental data provided by our industry partners.
• Research Publication and Dissemination: Publishing your findings in reputable scientific journals and presenting them at conferences will be a key part of your role.
• Collaborative Projects: You will engage with interdisciplinary teams within and outside the university, collaborate on grant applications and research proposals, and work to extend the impact of your research.
• Teaching and Supervision: While the focus will be on research, you will also have the opportunity to teach and supervise student projects, for up to 20% of your working hours.
• Seeking External Research Funding: You will actively collaborate in securing external research funding for mutual benefit.

Special circumstances of this position may include travel to national and international conferences and workshops, offering opportunities to network and collaborate with leading experts in the field. You may also visit our industry partners for data collection and discussions.

Qualification requirements

Appointment to a postdoctoral position requires that the applicant holds a PhD, or an international degree deemed equivalent to a PhD, in the subject area of the position. The certificate proving that the qualification requirement has been met must be received before the employment decision is made. Priority will be given to candidates who have obtained their PhD no more than three years prior to the application deadline. Under special circumstances, the doctoral degree may have been completed earlier.

Additional requirements:

• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• Solid knowledge and demonstrable experience in high-performance numerical simulations of turbulent reactive flows, including direct numerical simulation (DNS) and large eddy simulation (LES).
• Strong knowledge in the analysis of large DNS and LES datasets, and the ability to use this data to develop reduced-order models for combustion simulations.
• Strong analytical skills and a proven ability to conduct independent research.
• A track record of published research in relevant scientific journals.

Assessment criteria

This is a career development position primarily focused on research. It is intended as an initial step in a research career, and the assessment of applicants will be primarily based on their research qualifications and potential as researchers. Particular emphasis will be placed on research skills within the subject area.

For appointments to a post-doctoral position, the following criteria will be used for assessment:

• Strong ability to develop and conduct high-quality research.
• Teaching skills.

Other qualifications include:

• Expertise in advanced CFD, specifically in green fuel thermochemical conversion, which will be highly valued.
• Experience collaborating with industry partners or participating in interdisciplinary research projects will be considered favorably.
• A strong record of collaboration in research, evidenced by joint publications, project work, or collaborative grants.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, to effectively share research findings with academic and non-academic audiences.
• Ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams, contributing positively to team dynamics and project development.
• Strong organizational skills, including the ability to manage time effectively and handle multiple priorities.

Consideration will also be given to how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they can contribute to its future development.

We offer

Lund University is a public authority which means that employees get particular benefits, generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme. Read more on the University website about being a Lund University employee Work at Lund University.

Further information

This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of 2 years from October 2025. The period of employment is determined in accordance with the agreement “Avtal om tidsbegränsad anställning som postdoktor” (“Agreement on fixed-term employment as a post-doctoral fellow”).

How to apply

Applications shall be written in English. Please draw up the application in accordance with LTH’s Academic qualifications portfolio – see link below. Upload the application as PDF-files in the recruitment system (including your PhD certificate). Read more: To apply for academic positions at LTH. http://www.lth.se/english/working-at-lth/to-apply-for-academic-positions-at-lth/

Alternatively

Applications are to be submitted via the University’s recruitment system. The application should include a CV and a personal letter justifying your interest in the position and how it matches your qualifications. The application should also include a degree certificate or equivalent and any other document to which you would like to draw attention (copies of grade transcripts, details of referees, letters of recommendation, etc.)”

Welcome to apply!