About the role
Location: Worcester · Type: Full time · Posted: 2026-06-29 · Reference: R0003506
JOB TITLE
Post-Doctoral Fellow
LOCATION
Worcester
DEPARTMENT NAME
Fire Protection Engineering - NFR JM
DIVISION NAME
Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPI
JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY
Applications are being sought for a postdoctoral fellow in the research area of Fire Research with a focus on Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) fires under the leadership of Prof. James L Urban in the department of Fire Protection Engineering and as part of the Wildfire Interdisciplinary Research Center at WPI (wildfirecenter.com). The position will involve experimental campaigns related to WUI fire exposure, compartment fires, and assisting/contributing to small- and large-scale experiments. The position is for one-year with the possibility of renewal depending on funding.
JOB DESCRIPTION
Required skills and qualifications:
PhD in Mechanical engineering, Fire Protection Engineering, or other related STEM field
Ideal major background will be in the thermal fluids area (fire, fluid mechanics, combustion, or heat transfer)
Strong foundation in thermal fluids
Desired/Optional qualifications:
Experience using fire testing equipment: thermocouples, heat flux gauges, thin-skin calorimeters, pitot-tubes, etc.
Experience with gas sampling and measurements from fire tests
Experience with intermediate to large-scale fire testing
Prior research experience performing physical modelling is a plus
Familiarity with imaging analysis and/or computer vision is a plus.
Applicants will need to provide a letter of interest (1-2pg), a complete CV, at least two exemplar publications, and at least three academic / research references. Applications and associated information will be accepted until the position is filled.
Compensation:
Salary: $65,000 per year. Salary is based on related experience, expertise, and internal equity. WPI's benefits package includes a robust retirement match, wellness perks, tuition assistance and more!
FLSA STATUS
United States of America (Exempt)
WPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. It seeks individuals from all backgrounds and experiences who will contribute to a culture of creativity, collaboration, inclusion, problem solving, innovation, high performance, and change making. It is committed to maintaining a campus environment free of harassment and discrimination.
How to apply
Read the full posting, then apply through the employer's own site. Applications are handled by the institution, not by AcademicGates.