Research Assistant

Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPI

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Worcester Until 8/21/2026 H-1B sponsor history First posted September 2, 2025 Last posted September 2, 2025
Job description

JOB TITLE

Research Assistant

LOCATION

Worcester

DEPARTMENT NAME

Mechanical & Materials Engineering - JM

DIVISION NAME

Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPI

JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

Multiple PhD Research Assistant positions are available in the Multiscale Thermal Fluids Laboratory (MTFL) within the Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI). These are immediate openings, and priority will be given to applicants who can begin the program right away.

Compensation: $21/hourly. This position is supported through external funding.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Project 1: Droplet Dynamics 

This project involves the experimental study of sessile droplet behavior in shear gas flows, using high-speed imaging and image processing techniques. 

Project 2: Energy Analysis of Commercial Buildings 

This project focuses on the energy performance analysis of commercial buildings in the region, with the broader goal of promoting clean energy systems. 

Both projects fall under the overarching theme of clean energy research. 

The Mechanical and Materials Engineering Department at WPI enrolls approximately 1,000 undergraduate and 200 graduate students. WPI is located in Worcester, MA, a dynamic and growing city just one hour from Boston. 

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Project 1: Applicants must hold a BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Chemical Engineering, with experience in experimental fluid dynamics and image processing. 

  • Project 2: Applicants must hold a BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or Architectural Engineering. 

Application Instructions: 

Interested applicants should include the following documents: Contact Dr. Mehdi Mortazavi (mmortazavi@wpi.edu) for any inquires: 

  • Complete resume (PDF format) 

  • BS and MS transcripts 

  • GRE and TOEFL scores (for international applicants) 

  • Names and email addresses of three references 

Additional Information: 

Details about Dr. Mortazavi’s research can be found at: https://wp.wpi.edu/mtfl/   

FLSA STATUS

United States of America (Non-Exempt)

WPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. It seeks individuals from all backgrounds and experiences who will contribute to a culture of creativity, collaboration, inclusion, problem solving, innovation, high performance, and change making. It is committed to maintaining a campus environment free of harassment and discrimination.

About this role

Summary

Assist in experimental fluid dynamics and energy analysis projects within clean energy research.

Job title

Research Assistant

Experience level

BS or MS in relevant engineering fields

Industry

education

Location requirements

Worcester, MA, on-site; no remote work indicated

Salary

Compensation: $21/hourly

Visa sponsorship

H-1B sponsor history

Management role

No

Skills & keywords

Required skills

fluid dynamicsimage processingexperimental research

Preferred skills

thermal fluidsenergy analysis

Specializations

fluid dynamicsimage processingthermal fluidsclean energy
Locations

Structured locations inferred from the posting.

Worcester, MA, USA

On-site City