Hypersonics Research Faculty

The University of Minnesota is working to establish the Minnesota Aerospace Complex (MAC) with the goal of integrating advanced modeling and simulation tools with state-of-the-art wind tunnel testing. The MAC will advance the reliability and complexity of simulations, extend and validate physics models, and develop the next-generation multi-physics simulation environment for hypersonics. To support these goals, the University seeks applicants with significant experience in computational fluid dynamics, methods for unstructured grid generation, high-temperature gas dynamics, multi-physics simulations, and/or advanced code development for high-performance computing. A PhD and research experience in one of these areas is required.

This position will serve as a member of the University of Minnesota research team providing critical research and analysis support in collaboration with faculty, other research staff and graduate students. There is also the potential for the candidate to teach courses and to participate in the undergraduate and graduate programs within the Department of Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics.

This position may qualify to be hired at one of several research professor job classification levels depending on the qualifications (Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor levels), background and experience of the candidate. The salary will be commensurate with experience.

This position opens to US citizens and permanent residents only. No visa sponsorship.

A successful candidate will provide expertise in the development and application of advanced multi-physics simulations for hypersonics. Candidates with experience in the development and application of digital twin system models and/or uncertainty quantification methods are of particular interest. The position will require close collaboration with the existing development team and the hypersonics research group at the University of Minnesota. The position will require the handling of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and will involve collaborations with the government and relevant aerospace industry.

Areas of responsibility include:

• Modeling & Simulation Research and Application (80%)
  • Contribute to the development and application of novel high-fidelity modeling and simulation methods for problems in hypersonics and advanced wind tunnel testing.
  • Work closely with the existing code development team to implement and validate new features to support the overall goals of the the Minnesota Aerospace Complex.
  • Work with code users to identify and solve issues and to define new requirements.
    
• Leadership and Mentoring (10%)
  • Provide guidance and mentoring to graduate students and post-docs.
    
• Publications and Reporting (10%)
  Support proposal development and reporting, including writing technical reports and papers, and giving presentations at conferences and reviews.
  

Required Qualifications:

• PhD in aerospace engineering or related field
• Two or more years of research training
• Excellent analytical and computer programming skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and effective work with other research staff
• Excellent organizational, presentation and writing skills
• Demonstrated self-motivation and creativity

Preferred Qualifications:

• Extensive research experience in computational fluids, advanced grid generation and unstructured gridding of complex geometries, high-temperature gas dynamics, advanced multi-physics simulation methods to complex unsteady and turbulent hypersonic flows, and/or advanced code development for high-performance computing
  

The Department of Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics (AEM) is in the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Minnesota, which is a world-class research university with outstanding resources and programs in engineering and science, health sciences, social sciences and liberal arts. The department has vibrant and active research programs in all areas of aerospace engineering and mechanics including fluid dynamics, hypersonics, solid mechanics and materials, and aerospace systems and GNC. The department is poised for growth in both its academic programs and research areas and seeks to expand its faculty by making a number of strategic hires over the next several years. The AEM department has close ties with on-campus multidisciplinary centers, and convenient access to outstanding shared experimental and computational facilities, such as the Gemini-Huntley Robotics Research Laboratory of the Minnesota Robotics Institute, the Minnesota Nano Center, the Characterization Facility, the Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, St. Anthony Falls Laboratory, Institute on the Environment, and the Minnesota Supercomputing Institute. More information about the department is available at https://cse.umn.edu/aem.

This is a contract faculty position, hiring at the Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor levels; rank and salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Pay Range: Assistant Research Professor: $140K-$155K, Associate Research Professor: $155K-$175K, Full Research Professor: $175K-$200K; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume or CV.

This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail jobcentr@umn.edu.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.