Research opportunities in fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and computational methods at the Gran Sasso Science Institute (GSSI), L'Aquila, Italy.
Two postdoctoral positions are available in the Fluid Mechanics group at the Gran Sasso Science Institute (GSSI). The positions are funded through the HEATFORCE project (predicting heat transfer by forced convection in variable-property fluids), supported by the Fondo Italiano per la Scienza (FIS2).
The HEATFORCE project investigates how heat is transferred in turbulent flows when fluid properties vary with temperature. Heat transfer by forced convection plays a key role in many energy systems, including home radiators, heat pumps, fuel cells, nuclear power plants, solar receivers, computers, aircraft, and rocket engines. In all these applications, fluids are heated or cooled so strongly that their properties, such as density and viscosity, change significantly.
In this project, we will use direct numerical simulations to understand how these property variations affect friction and heat transfer at walls, both smooth and rough. We will study common fluids such as air and water, as well as more complex ones such as molten salts and liquid metals, with the goal of developing reliable, physics-based predictive models.
For both positions, priority will be given to candidates with experience in high-speed turbulent flows, wall turbulence, and large-scale numerical simulations. Previous work on rough-wall turbulence will be considered an additional asset.
Both positions offer a competitive salary (approximately 2900 euros/month net). Candidates who are eligible (i.e. hold a PhD at the time of application) are encouraged to apply for both positions. The successful candidates will join an international research environment and will have access to high-performance computing facilities and support.
The postdoctoral researchers will perform high-fidelity simulations, analyse turbulent-flow data, and present results at international conferences, for which dedicated travel funds are available.
For inquiries about the project or the position, candidates may contact Davide Modesti.
Applications must be submitted through the GSSI website:
https://applications.gssi.it/postdoc
Deadline: 21 May 2026, 15:00 CET
Candidates should upload the following documents:
A PhD position is available in the Fluid Mechanics group at the Gran Sasso Science Institute (GSSI). The position is funded through the HEATFORCE project (predicting heat transfer by forced convection in variable-property fluids), supported by the Fondo Italiano per la Scienza (FIS2).
The HEATFORCE project investigates how heat is transferred in turbulent flows when fluid properties change with temperature. Heat transfer by forced convection plays a key role in many energy systems, including home radiators, heat pumps, fuel cells, nuclear power plants, solar receivers, computers, aircraft, and rocket engines. In all these applications, fluids are heated or cooled so strongly that their properties, such as density and viscosity, change significantly.
In this project, we will use direct numerical simulations to understand how these property variations affect friction and heat transfer at walls, both smooth and rough. We will study common fluids such as air and water, as well as more complex ones such as molten salts and liquid metals, with the goal of developing reliable, physics-based predictive models.
The ideal candidate must hold, or be close to obtaining, a Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or a related discipline, and have a solid background in fluid mechanics and numerical methods.
A strong interest in turbulence, compressible flows, heat transfer, and computational fluid dynamics is expected. Experience in scientific programming (e.g. Fortran, C++, Python) and familiarity with high-performance computing environments are advantageous. Knowledge of turbulent flows and wall-bounded flows is appreciated.
The successful candidate will be enrolled in the PhD program in Mathematics in Natural, Social and Life Sciences at GSSI. The position is fully funded for the four-year duration of the program.
In addition to the PhD scholarship (approximately 1200 euros/month net), the institute provides additional benefits, including accommodation or partial reimbursement of rental costs and meal vouchers on weekdays.
The candidate will join a dynamic and international research environment, with access to high-performance computing facilities and dedicated technical support. The PhD researcher will perform large-scale numerical simulations, analyse high-fidelity datasets, and disseminate results through publications and presentations at international conferences, supported by dedicated travel funding.
GSSI offers a focused research setting with a strong emphasis on fundamental science, interdisciplinary interaction, and close supervision.
For informal inquiries about the project, candidates may contact Davide Modesti.
Applications must be submitted through the GSSI website:
https://applications.gssi.it/phd
Deadline: 15 May 2026, 15:00
Candidates should upload the following documents: