Open positions
GRADUATE RESEARCH ASSISTANT (GRA) POSITION MECHANICAL ENGINEERING / ENERGY SYSTEMS / COMBUSTION
Dr. Cosmin Dumitrescu is seeking highly motivated applicants for several full-time Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) open positions that will join an internationally recognized research program focused on energy systems, advanced combustion technologies, plasma science and engineering, and materials chemistry.
The successful candidate will pursue graduate studies (M.S. or Ph.D.) while conducting cutting-edge research that combines experiments, numerical simulations, and field demonstrations in collaboration with industry partners. Positions will start Spring 2027 or Fall 2027.
Research Responsibilities
The GRA's main responsibility will be supporting the field deployment, full-scale validation, and commercialization of technologies capable of mitigating methane losses caused by flaring and non-safety-related venting practices upstream at the well. The project directly addresses an important challenge facing the oil and natural gas value chain by developing technologies that reduce methane losses while enabling reliable energy production.
Research activities will include:
- Design, testing, and optimization of advanced combustion systems
- Laboratory experimentation and prototype development
- 0D–3D numerical simulations of fluid flow, heat transfer, combustion and emissions
- Field deployment and performance evaluation
- Full-scale validation of combustion technologies
- Development of data acquisition and control systems
- Analysis and interpretation of experimental and computational data
- Preparation of technical reports, journal publications, and conference presentations
- Collaboration with industrial partners and participation in technology commercialization activities
Qualifications
Applicants should possess the following qualifications:
- BS/MS degree in Mechanical Engineering or an equivalent engineering discipline
- Real interest in learning, conducting research, and participating in outreach related to power generation and propulsion
- Knowledge of energy systems, combustion, plasma physics
- Experience with, or strong interest in, computer modeling, system control and the use of artificial intelligence in engineering using software such as CONVERGE, ANSYS Fluent, MATLAB, LabVIEW, Python, GT-Power, or similar engineering tools
- Good quantitative, analytical, and communication skills
- Good technical writing skills
- Experience in mechanical design and manufacturing of engineering solutions
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research environment
Research Environment
While this project has a clear emphasis on methane mitigation and combustion technology, the GRA will be part of a larger multidisciplinary research team involving engineering, applied physics, chemistry, materials science, artificial intelligence, and education.
As a result, the GRA will have opportunities to participate in several cutting-edge research projects, including:
- Advanced energy systems
- Conventional and alternative fuels
- Environmental Engineering
- 0D-3D Computational fluid dynamics / Numerical simulations
- Plasma Physics & Fluid Dynamics
- High-speed imaging
- Laser diagnostics
- Non-thermal plasma technologies
- Plasma-assisted ignition
This collaborative environment provides exceptional opportunities to broaden research expertise, publish in leading journals, present at international conferences, interact with industrial partners, and develop a strong foundation for careers in academia, national laboratories, or industry.
Preferred Attributes
Ideal candidates are intellectually curious, highly motivated, and passionate about solving real-world engineering problems through research and innovation. Applicants should demonstrate initiative, creativity, and a willingness to learn new experimental and computational techniques.
Funding
The selected student will receive a competitive Graduate Research Assistantship that includes:
- Full tuition support
- Competitive stipend
- Health insurance benefits (subject to university policies)
- Funding for conference travel and professional development, as available
Application Materials
Interested applicants should submit via email to cosmin.dumitrescu@mail.wvu.edu:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover letter describing research interests and career goals
- Academic transcripts (unofficial copies are acceptable for initial review)
- Contact information for three professional or academic references
Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and the position will remain open until filled.
Join our research team and contribute to the development of next-generation combustion technologies that reduce methane emissions, improve energy sustainability, and accelerate the commercialization of innovative solutions for the global energy industry.