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Turbulence Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Zap Energy

Senior/Principal Scientist (Theory)

Everett, WA · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

PhD in plasma physics, fluid dynamics, turbulence, combustion, or a closely related field and 5-10+ ... Strong knowledge of scientific computing and algorithms (CFD, MHD, continuum kinetic modeling, PIC ...

Nrel

Computational Atmospheric Scientist

Boulder, CO · Hybrid

Posting Title Computational Atmospheric Scientist . Location CO - Boulder . Position Type Limited ... Expertise in atmospheric turbulence, and validation of numerical models against observations

Tufts University

Postdoctoral Scholar

Medford, MA · On-site

$67K/yr

... turbulence, and materials modeling. Methodological interests in the group span scientific generative modeling, representation learning, optimal transport, and neural operators. Candidates whose ...

Tufts University

Postdoctoral Scholar

Medford, MA · On-site

$67K/yr

... turbulence, and materials modeling. Methodological interests in the group span scientific generative modeling, representation learning, optimal transport, and neural operators. Candidates whose ...

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Turbulence Scientist information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Turbulence Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Turbulence Scientist, you need advanced knowledge of fluid dynamics, mathematics, and physics, typically supported by a Ph.D. in a related field. Proficiency with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software, programming languages like Python or MATLAB, and experience with simulation tools are essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help convey complex concepts and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for advancing research, solving challenging engineering problems, and contributing to innovations in aerospace, meteorology, or energy sectors.

What are some common challenges faced by Turbulence Scientists when applying computational models to real-world fluid dynamics problems?

Turbulence Scientists often encounter challenges when bridging the gap between theoretical models and real-world applications. Turbulence is inherently complex and chaotic, making accurate modeling computationally intensive and often requiring significant simplifications. Limited computational resources, noisy or incomplete experimental data, and the need to validate models against real-life observations are common hurdles. Collaborating closely with engineers, experimentalists, and other scientists is critical to refine models, interpret data, and ensure practical relevance in industries such as aerospace, meteorology, and energy.

What is a Turbulence Scientist?

A Turbulence Scientist is a researcher who studies the behavior of fluids, such as air or water, when they move in chaotic and unpredictable ways known as turbulence. These scientists use a combination of mathematics, physics, computer simulations, and experiments to understand and predict turbulent flows. Their work is essential in fields like aerospace engineering, meteorology, oceanography, and energy, helping to improve aircraft design, weather forecasting, and environmental modeling. Turbulence Scientists often work in universities, government labs, or private industry, collaborating with engineers and other scientists to solve complex fluid dynamics problems.

What is the difference between Turbulence Scientist vs Aeronautical Engineer?

AspectTurbulence ScientistAeronautical Engineer
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees in fluid dynamics or atmospheric sciencesBachelor's or master's in aerospace engineering or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, atmospheric or aerospace research centersDesign offices, manufacturing plants, aircraft testing facilities
Industry UsageFocuses on studying turbulence phenomena, modeling, and predictionDesigns and develops aircraft, propulsion systems, and aeronautical components

While both roles involve aerospace and fluid dynamics, a Turbulence Scientist specializes in understanding and modeling turbulence phenomena, often working in research settings. An Aeronautical Engineer focuses on designing and developing aircraft and related systems, applying principles of aerodynamics and engineering. The roles are complementary but distinct in their focus and work environment.

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What job categories do people searching Turbulence Scientist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Turbulence Scientist jobs are:
Turbulence Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Turbulence Scientist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.
Senior/Principal Scientist (Theory)

Senior/Principal Scientist (Theory)

Zap Energy

Everett, WA • On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

About Zap Energy
Zap is advancing the next generation of nuclear power technology across fusion, fission and hybrid applications. Built on an integrated platform of high-energy-density physics and pulsed power, liquid metals and advanced materials, and compact, modular systems, Zap is building the foundational technologies needed to deploy the energy sources of the future.
About the opportunity
As a Senior/Principal Scientist (Theory), you'll play a critical role in advancing our understanding of Z-pinch operation. As part of the Theory & Modeling team, you'll deploy fluid and kinetic plasma simulation tools to guide experimental design and operation. Your work will address fundamental design challenges and shape strategies for generating and sustaining stable fusion conditions.
Responsibilities:
  • Lead the development and implementation of models that capture essential physics in the formation and sustainment of the sheared-flow-stabilized Z-pinch
  • Deploy computational tools for simulating compression physics, shock heating, turbulent and kinetic transport, plasma sheaths, atomic and molecular reactions, two-fluid effects, and 3D phenomena
  • Validate models against experimental data and refine predictive capabilities
  • Collaborate with experimental teams to harness modeling insights to guide device design and operation
  • Share findings through publications and presentations at conferences

Qualifications
Required:
  • PhD in plasma physics, fluid dynamics, turbulence, combustion, or a closely related field and 5-10+ years of relevant experience
  • Experience leading computational design optimization and experimental validation
  • Strong knowledge of scientific computing and algorithms (CFD, MHD, continuum kinetic modeling, PIC, etc.
  • Proven ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively

Preferred:
  • Experience with AI augmentation of design-build-test loops
  • Familiarity with kinetic plasma physics and modeling
  • Knowledge of atomic and molecular physics of plasmas or combustion reaction chemistry
  • Expertise in modeling turbulent transport
  • Expertise in high-performance computing workflows

Employment may be conditioned upon the ability to obtain export authorization. Estimated salary range for Senior $130,000-160,000 and Principal: 150,000-200,000 annually. Candidates may be considered for other positions at Zap Energy and actual salary will be based on relevant education, experience, and other qualifications. Range is published in accordance with Washington Equal Pay and Opportunity Act.
Zap Energy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations.

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