The ERDC is working to advance the application of machine learning in engineering, specifically for the design and analysis of rotorcraft. As part of this project, ERDC is seeking faculty researchers for summer appointments in areas including, application of physics-informed machine learning approaches, development of machine learning models for design tradespaces, and integration of machine learning models with numerical simulations.

What will I be doing?

The ERDC is working with the Army's aviation community to advance the practices by which rotorcraft are designed and analyzed. Part of this effort includes implementation of machine learning (ML) approaches for engineering applications. You will participate in ML research for high-fidelity computational fluid dynamics, approximating design tradespaces, and data investigation.

Under the guidance of a mentor, you will engage in research with the High-Performance Computing for Army Aviation Concepts program to develop machine learning solutions for physics-based simulation and tradespace development. Specifically, you will be exploring the application of physics-informed machine learning approaches to simulation of rotor blades with the goal of significantly reducing the time required to simulate rotations of the blade while preserving accuracy of the rotor wake. You will also be exploring the application of machine learning as surrogate models for large-scale tradespaces for rotorcraft requirements exploration.

Research Activities Include:

• Develop machine learning approaches for simulation of rotor blades using computational software (Helios or equivalent)
• Integrate machine learning approaches with numerical simulation tools (e.g., Helios)
• Develop machine learning models for rotorcraft tradespaces
• Document and present approaches and results

Why should I apply? 

This summer faculty appointment provides the opportunity to independently utilize your skills and engage with experts in innovative ideas to move the proposed research forward.

Where will I be located?  Vicksburg, Mississippi

What is the anticipated start date? Summer 2023

Exact start dates will be determined at the time of selection and in coordination with the selected candidate.

What is the appointment length? 

This appointment is a summer research appointment. Appointments may be extended depending on funding availability, project assignment, program rules, and availability of the participant.

What are the benefits? 

You will receive a stipend to be determined by the sponsor. Stipends are typically based on a participant’s academic standing, discipline, experience, and research facility location. Other benefits may include the following:

• Health Insurance Supplement (Participants are eligible to purchase health insurance through ORISE)
• Relocation Allowance
• Training and Travel Allowance

About ORISE

This program, administered by Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU) through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and DoD. Participants do not enter into an employee/employer relationship with ORISE, ORAU, DoD or any other office or agency. Instead, you will be affiliated with ORISE for the administration of the appointment through the ORISE appointment letter and Terms of Appointment.  Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.  For more information, visit the ORISE Research Participation Program at the U.S. Department of Defense.

A highly qualified faculty candidate must be a current faculty member at an accredited institution of higher education and will have the following skills:

• Publication record in computational fluid dynamics and machine learning
• Experience in high-fidelity computational fluid dynamics and machine learning. Experience with python and C++
• Experience in aerospace design, design optimization, and tradespace analytics

Security Investigation: Applicants should be able to pass a National Agency Check and Inquiries (NACI) security investigation should they be selected and accept the internship offer.

Application Requirements

A complete application consists of:

• Zintellect profile
• Educational and Employment History
• Curriculum Vitae (PDF)
• Salary Certification from your university

Submitted documents must have all social security numbers, student identification numbers, and/or dates of birth removed (blanked out, blackened out, made illegible, etc.) prior to uploading into the application system. All documents must be in English or include an official English translation. If you have questions, send an email to USACE@orise.orau.gov. Please list the reference code of this opportunity in the subject line of the email. Please understand that ORISE does not review applications or select applicants; selections are made by the sponsoring agency identified on this opportunity. All application materials should be submitted via the “Apply” button at the bottom of this opportunity listing.  Please do not send application materials to the email address above.

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