Fluid Mechanics Design Engineer (experiments and simulations) - M/F - 6 months

Offer Description

JOB CONTEXT : The post is available at IUSTI (University Institute for Industrial Thermal Systems, UMR 7343), a laboratory of Aix-Marseille University and the CNRS located on the Château-Gombert site, within the shock tube platform, for a engineer (IGE) role. For the past two and a half years, IUSTI has been conducting, in collaboration with CEA-DAM (Bruyères-le-Châtel), a study of shock-induced gas-particle two-phase flows in convergent geometries. This research is based on a shock tube experimental facility (T80) dedicated to the study of isolated particles and particle beds, in both planar and convergent configurations. A new PhD thesis (2026–2029) is set to continue and expand on this work: new methods for measuring local particle concentration and tracking particles, a new piston-based test rig, and a rigorous comparison of planar and convergent configurations. Within this framework, the research engineer recruited for 6 months, at entry level (Master’s 2 level), will develop the numerical aspect of the project to support the experimental activities: comparing simulations with observations and refining the modelling of the phenomena under study.

RESPONSABILITIES : To develop the numerical aspect of activities relating to shock tubes: to simulate shock-induced gas-particle two-phase flows in planar and convergent geometries, and to compare the results with experimental data in order to interpret the observed phenomena and to validate and refine the physical models. In support of the team, he also participates in shock tube experimental campaigns (preparation and execution of tests, implementation of diagnostics, analysis of measurements) to ensure the link between experiments and calculations.

MAIN ACTIVITIES : Implement simulation tools for two-phase gas-particle flow (Euler-Lagrange-type approaches, codes developed in part by CEA-DAM) and adapt them to the configurations under study, Construct computational configurations (shock tube, planar geometry, converging chamber with curved walls) and define initial conditions based on experimental characterisations: spatial distribution of particles, compactness, initial velocity, grid curvature, Conduct parametric studies (Mach number, initial velocity and volume fraction of particles, convergence geometry), Participate in test campaigns on the T80 shock tube: preparation of particle beds, adjustment of shock conditions, conducting tests and data acquisition, Contribute to the implementation of experimental diagnostics (shadowgraphics, high-speed cameras, laser beam, pressure sensors) and their processing: image analysis, densitometry, Compare numerical results with experimental measurements (visualisations, densitometry, laser sheet) and analyse the mechanisms identified: recompaction of the particle bed, U-shaped front, three-dimensional effects, Participate in the evaluation of physical models (drag models, kinetic coupling between phases) and in the creation of a validation database, Develop post-processing and analysis tools (scripts, automation), in conjunction with experimental analysis tools, Document developments, draft technical reports and present findings to the team and partners

Requirements

• Research Field: Engineering » Mechanical engineering
• Education Level: Master Degree or equivalent

Skills/Qualifications

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERTISE : Master’s degree (Level 2) or engineering school qualification in fluid mechanics, energy engineering or computational science; entry-level candidates accepted, Fluid mechanics, compressible gas dynamics, shock waves, Basic understanding of gas-particle two-phase flows (drag, inter-phase coupling) would be an advantage, Basic understanding of instrumentation and metrology (pressure sensors, data acquisition, high-speed imaging); an interest in experimental work, Numerical methods for fluid mechanics (finite volumes, Euler-Euler and Euler-Lagrange approaches), Scientific programming (Python, C++ or Fortran), Linux environment, cluster computing, Scientific English (reading and writing)

SKILLS : Implementing and adapting simulation code for compressible and two-phase flows, Setting up a simulation case (geometry, meshing, initial and boundary conditions) based on experimental data, Conducting parametric studies, post-processing and analysing results (Python), Comparing simulations with experimental measurements and analysing discrepancies, Assist in conducting tests and set up measurement systems (sensors, high-speed cameras, data acquisition), Process and analyse experimental data (images, pressure signals) using Python, Draft technical reports and present findings, Document developments

PERSONAL QUALITIES : Independence and attention to detail, Scientific curiosity, analytical and synthesis skills, Ability to work as part of a team with experimenters, a PhD student and an external partner, Attention to detail when conducting experiments and adherence to safety regulations, Good organisational skills and ability to meet deadlines (6-month contract), Good written and oral communication skills; discretion

Languages: ENGLISH — Good

Languages: FRENCH — Basic

Research Field: Engineering » Mechanical engineering

Years of Research Experience: None

Additional Information

Benefits

Salary between €2,002 and €2,378 depending on experience (gross earnings)

Aix-Marseille University (AMU) is a multidisciplinary university organised around five major disciplinary sectors (Arts, Literature, Languages and Humanities; Law and Political Science; Economics and Management; Health; Science and Technology; and a multidisciplinary sector). AMU educates 80,000 students across 17 constituent units (faculties, schools, institutes), spread across four departments (04, 05, 13 and 84) and 10 towns (find out more: www.univ-amu.fr).

AMU on video: https://youtu.be/7-Hrtn-l2Qk

The diversity of our sites means we can now offer unique career opportunities.

Selection process

1. Submission of applications: Please submit your application (detailed CV and covering letter) before the deadline stated in the vacancy notice to the following address: georges.jourdan@univ-amu.fr.

2. Review of applications: Our Recruitment Office and the management team will assess all applications against the skills required for the role.

3. Selection interview: If your application is shortlisted, you will be invited to one or more interviews with a recruitment panel to discuss your career background and motivations. If you have not received a response from us within three weeks of the closing date for applications, you may assume that your application has not been successful.

4. After the interviews: If your application has been successful, you will receive an email or a phone call from the recruiter. If your application has not been successful following your interview, you will always receive a personalised response by email or telephone.

Additional comments

REPORTING STRUCTURE : Reporting to the head of the IUSTI shock tube platform (Georges Jourdan, Professor), liaising with the PhD student, the experimental team and the numerical simulation teams at CEA-DAM.

SPECIFIC TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYEMENT : Full-time post based at IUSTI, Château-Gombert site (Marseille), within the shock tube facility, The unit is located in Restricted Access Zone. Access is strictly controlled, START DATE: 1 December 2026 or 1 January 2027, Work on experimental equipment (shock tube, pressurised gas): strict adherence to the facility’s safety guidelines, Six-month fixed-term contract, Work on computer workstations and computing resources; confidentiality of data arising from the collaboration with CEA-DAM, Occasional travel may be required (follow-up meetings with the partner, conferences)

Website for additional job details: https://iusti.cnrs.fr/la-recherche-a-liusti/ecoulements-compressibles-ondes-de-choc-et-interfaces-axe-ecoci/

Work Location(s)

• Number of offers available: 1
• Company/Institute: AMU IUSTI UMR7343
• Country: France
• City: Marseille cedex 13
• Postal Code: 13453
• Street: Technopôle de Chateau Gombert 05 Rue Enrico Fermi - Bat Fermi

Contact

• City: MARSEILLE Cedex 13
• Website: https://www.univ-amu.fr/
• Street: Technopôle de Château Gombert, 5 Rue Enrico Fermi
• Postal Code: 13453
• E-Mail: georges.jourdan@univ-amu.fr