Todd Lowe

The Kevin T. Crofton Department of Aerospace and Ocean Engineering at Virginia Tech is seeking a postdoctoral associate for a two-part research program at the university’s main campus in Blacksburg, Virginia. One half of the appointment focuses on hypersonic aerodynamics and computational fluid dynamics. Working with Prof. Chris Roy and collaborators at Spectral Sciences, Inc., the researcher will apply machine learning tools to improve turbulence modeling for CFD prediction of hypersonic flows. The project centers on Favre-Averaged Navier-Stokes turbulence models and physics-constrained machine learning methods aimed at improving predictions of surface heating, skin friction, and flow separation. The other half of the role is linked to experimental and model-validation work with Prof. Todd Lowe and the Virginia Tech Advanced Propulsion and Power Laboratory. This component supports ongoing and future CFD model validation and development experiments, including work on engine inlet distortion and engine particle transport with government and industry partners. The position sits within a research environment that combines aerospace engineering theory, simulation, and laboratory experimentation. The advert also notes opportunities for teaching and service-related activities, and it emphasizes the need for strong communication and teamwork in a collaborative setting.