PhD Position in Medical Modeling & Simulation (Computational Medicine, Mechanical Engineering) at Old Dominion University Old Dominion University in United States

The Medical Modeling & Simulation Laboratory at Old Dominion University (ODU) is recruiting a highly motivated PhD student to join a multidisciplinary research program at the intersection of computational fluid dynamics (CFD), fluid–structure interaction (FSI), biomechanics, and physiological modeling. This opportunity is part of ODU’s expanding medical–engineering ecosystem, following its new R1 designation and the establishment of the EnMed Institute for Engineering in Medicine, Health, and Human Performance. The selected student will collaborate with partners across ODU, Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS), Sentara Healthcare, VMASC, and EnMed, engaging in translational, high-impact projects with clinicians and computational scientists.

The lab focuses on developing physics-based computational models of human physiology, emphasizing high-fidelity simulations of physiological flow in patient-specific or anatomically realistic geometries, fluid–structure interaction modeling of tissues and valves, and integrating advanced numerical methods into studies of health, disease, and medical device performance. Students will work in a collaborative environment combining engineering, medicine, and high-performance computing, and will have access to strong HPC infrastructure, imaging data, and interdisciplinary collaborations.

Applicants should demonstrate strong problem-solving skills, critical thinking, analytical reasoning, curiosity, enthusiasm for research, self-motivation, teamwork, communication abilities, adaptability, and professionalism. Preferred backgrounds include mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, applied mathematics, physics, or related STEM fields. Experience with continuum mechanics, fluid dynamics, structural mechanics, CFD, FEA, FSI, programming (C++, Python, MATLAB), numerical methods (FVM, FEM, FDM), and CAD (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Creo) is desirable but not required. For admission to the PhD in Mechanical Engineering, a master's degree in engineering, physics, or mathematics is required, with a GPA of 3.5/4.0 preferred. GRE scores are typically required but may be waived for strong candidates.

ODU offers a unique environment for engineering–medicine collaboration, with close partnerships with Sentara Healthcare, the Sentara Heart Hospital, and the Virginia Modeling, Analysis & Simulation Center. The PhD program in Mechanical Engineering is designed to prepare graduates for careers in teaching, research and development, design, and consulting, with strong ties to high-technology industries, research organizations, and government agencies. Tuition for non-residents is $1,334.50 per credit for 2025-26, and funding may be available through assistantships or scholarships. International applications are welcome.

To apply, send your CV, a brief statement of research interests or motivation, and contact information for 2-3 references to [email protected]. Mention the CFD Jobs Database, record #19890, in your application. The application deadline is April 15, 2026, for a Fall 2026 start. For more information, visit the program page at Old Dominion University.