How to Apply

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. Interested candidates should submit the following application materials:

• Cover letter detailing your research interests and career goals, including research accomplishments
  and how this position relates to future research plans (1-2 pages).
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) including a list of publications.
• Contact information for at least two, and not more than three, professional references.

Applications should be submitted electronically directly to Professor Limbach at [email protected]

Job Summary

We invite applications for multiple research fellow positions in the field of optical and laser measurements of plasmas and rarefied flows, with a focus on density and VDF measurement
techniques. The Limbach group in the Department of Aerospace Engineering at UM performs research at the intersection of optical science, sensing, and aerospace applications. Our research program consists of two main thrusts, 1) the development and application of state-of-the-art laser and optical sensing techniques - both on the ground and in flight - to better understand plasmadynamics and hypersonic flow physics, and 2) the exploration of transformational concepts for in-space power and
propulsion using innovative laser architectures and/or rarefied atomic beams. 

The current research fellow opening pertains to new projects funded through DARPA and the US Space Force and focuses on the development and application of spectroscopic techniques to investigate rarefied flows and plasmas of relevance to space power and propulsion. The successful applicant will apply various spectroscopic techniques, including frequency and wavelength modulated spectroscopy (FMS/WMS), laser absorption spectroscopy (LAS) and laser-induced fluorescence (LIF and TALIF) to the study of reactive plasmas and changed/neutral particle flows with an emphasis on the measurement of species density and velocity distribution functions (VDFs). The experimental effort will be closely coupled to synergistic modeling and inform the design and optimization of space power and propulsion systems which are the project focus.

Please visit the lab webpage https://sites.google.com/umich.edu/limbachlab

Who We Are

Michigan Engineers are world-class educators, researchers, students and staff who strive to build a people-first future. As part of a top national public research institution, Michigan Engineering's mission is to provide scientific and technological leadership to the people of the world, develop intellectually curious and socially conscious minds, create collaborative solutions to societal problems, and promote an inclusive and innovative community of service for the common good. 

Our vision, mission and values are supported by a people-first engineering framework that guides our work. As Michigan Engineers, we strive to apply excellent engineering fundamentals, integrated expertise and equity centered values to reimagine what engineering can be, close critical gaps, and elevate all people. Information about our vision, mission and values can
be found at: http://strategicvision.engin.umich.edu/.

The University of Michigan has a storied legacy of commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). Michigan Engineering models that commitment in our research, culture and collaborations. We seek to recruit and retain a diverse workforce as a reflection of that commitment. Learn more about DEI at Michigan Engineering: https://www.engin.umich.edu/culture/diversity-equity-inclusion/

Responsibilities*

• Design, implement and execute test campaigns of laser diagnostics for neutral/charged species
  densities and velocity distribution functions.
• Develop, apply and refine spectroscopic models for key neutral and ion species.
• Collect and analyze experimental data, draw conclusions and publish findings in high-quality peer-
  reviewed academic journals.
• Plan and test new laser and optical diagnostics and approaches.
• Operate and maintain lasers, vacuum facilities, and other experimental apparatuses.
• Interface with internal and external team members working in the group or on the same project.
• Disseminate research findings at conferences and symposia through posters and presentations.
• Work alongside and provide guidance to junior team members, including graduate and
  undergraduate researchers.

Required Qualifications*

• Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering or a related field.
• Strong background in optical science (in particular wave optics), laser science, experimental
  methods, atomic and molecular spectroscopy, plasma science, and/or data analysis.
• Ability for design and undertake experimental research, analyze results and prepare manuscripts for
  publication in high-quality academic journals.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Desired Qualifications*

• Significant and demonstrated experience with laser and optical diagnostics of gases and/or plasmas, or combustion systems, as evidenced in a publication record.
• Experience with CW and pulsed (nanosecond, picosecond, femtosecond) laser systems, optical systems, frequency conversion and optical parameteric processes, laser spectroscopy, wavelength modulation, aero-optics and beam propagation, scientific imaging and data acquisition systems.

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Contact Information

For further inquiries about the position, please contact: Professor Christopher Limbach at [email protected].

Selection Process

Review of applications will begin on 10/15/2024 and continue until the position is filled. Start dates as early as January 2, 2025 can be accommodated.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.