Job Details

Postdoctoral Fellowship in Advanced Simulation for GEN IV Small Modular Reactor (SMR) Development - SAMA

 

King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM)

in Partnership with the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI, Switzerland)


Location: Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
Application Deadline: Open until filled
Start Date: As soon as possible
Duration: 2 years (extendable)

 

About the Position

The Interdisciplinary Research Center for Industrial Nuclear Energy (IRC-INE) at KFUPM is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join a cutting-edge project focused on the development of a GEN IV Small Modular Reactor (SMR).

This position is a part of a strategic initiative with the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI, Switzerland) under the Saudi-Swiss Advanced Modular Reactor Alliance (SAMA) to support the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and long-term net-zero carbon goals. The successful candidate will contribute to the creation of advanced simulation and optimization tools that will drive the design of high-performance heat pipes for thermal management of the SAMA SMR.

Working at the interface of nuclear engineering, thermal-fluid sciences, and computational modelling, the postdoctoral researcher will develop, validate using in-house test data, and apply multi-fidelity, Multiphysics simulation frameworks, in conjunction with machine learning-based design optimization, to better understand heat pipe performance in extreme reactor environments. This role offers a unique opportunity to engage in high-impact nuclear energy research with direct industrial relevance, in collaboration with both local and international partners.

Key Responsibilities
  • Develop and implement low- and high-fidelity numerical models of heat pipes.
  • Perform parameter studies to investigate the impact of geometry, exotic materials and fluids, temperature extremes, and degradation mechanisms.
  • Collaborate with KFUPM experimentalists for model validation.
  • Integrate machine learning algorithms for design optimization.
  • Prepare scientific publications, conference presentations, and intellectual property submissions.
Qualifications
  • Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Applied Physics, or related field.
  • Strong background in numerical modelling, Multiphysics simulation, and/or thermal-fluid systems.
  • Proven experience in multiphase flow, flow in porous media, and/or conjugate heat transfer in complex systems.
  • Experience with tools such as COMSOL, ANSYS, OpenFOAM, or similar.
  • Familiarity with machine learning methods for engineering applications is a plus.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
We Offer
  • A dynamic, supportive research environment with skilled colleagues and excellent opportunities for scientific growth at one of the region's leading institutions.
  • Access to cutting-edge computational resources and experimental facilities.
  • Collaboration opportunities within the SAMA initiative and international nuclear energy research communities.
  • A competitive salary and housing allowance.
  • Benefits package, which includes: 30 days paid annual vacation, access to campus facilities and private beach, and campus medical service
How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit the following documents: irc-ine@kfupm.edu.sa

  1. Cover letter or research statement outlining research interests and fit for the position
  1. Full CV, including a list of publications

For more information about the position, please contact:
Pieter Boom
Email: pieter.boom@kfupm.edu.sa
Website: https://ri.kfupm.edu.sa/irc-ine

Help shape the future of sustainable nuclear energy—apply now!