Energy Institute Research Scientist - Open Pool

About the role

The CSU Energy Institute includes the Zimmerle Research Group, one of the leading research groups for problem detection and prevention of emissions from oil and natural gas (O&G) operations, from production through distribution and end use. The group operates the Modernizing Energy Technology Experiment Center (METEC) where the focus is on a wide range of emissions, testing, and solution research and development.

This position resides at the Powerhouse Energy Campus and METEC facility, both of which are industrial working environments.

Position Summary

This position will collaborate with other research scientists and teams of research associates and also lead the development of test methods and measurement systems for air emissions research program. In addition, this position will interface with industry and academic partners to develop measurement and analysis campaigns, test protocols, associated equipment, and lead field measurement campaigns.

This position will mentor and advise staff, graduate and undergraduate students. Engage in workshops and industry group meetings along with academic conferences. In addition, this position may be asked to develop student learning activities in the air emissions research area, including teaching courses and supervising senior design teams.

Essential Job Duties

• Develop digital twin, statistical, and similar simulation models in collaboration with a broad team of lead scientists, hardware engineers, and industry.
• Identify foundational models and science required for digital twin systems. Instantiate these models into working software meeting defined objectives for accuracy, performance, suitability, and open source requirements.
• Integrate digital twin development with hardware simulations including complex sensor and instrument systems, such as robotic/autonomous systems.
• Work in field and remotely with industry partners stakeholders to acquire field data necessary to validate simulation models, including planning and conducting measurement and analysis activities
• Prepare presentations/reports required by sponsors, present to broad audiences at conferences & workshops, and prepare manuscripts for journal publication and conference proceedings.
• Accomplish project objectives within with budget and timeline constraints of 1-3 project simultaneously.
• Coordinate between multiple parties to achieve research objectives, interface with vendors and service providers including planning meetings and site visits, and supervise, coach and mentor students and junior staff during laboratory and field experiments.
• Identify research needs and opportunities, lead development of research plans, budgets, and proposals for future research work.

Salary Range

$80,000-$130,000

Supervision

• Position will serve as a key individual contributor on some projects and as primary project manager on others, and will supervise undergraduate students, graduate students, and other professional engineers.

Research Scientist Minimum Qualifications by level

• Research Scientist I: recent (less than 3 years) PhD with limited scientific research experience.
• Research Scientist II: at least 3 years of post-doctoral work or its equivalent.

Additional Minimum Qualifications for all levels

• PhD in engineering, physics, or related physical science, mathematics or computer science field. Regardless of degree identification, candidate must demonstrate strong understanding of physics, physical systems and practical application of algorithms and simulation technology.
• Demonstrated experience acquiring and analyzing data from diverse sources.
• Experience in the computer simulation of complex systems using state-of-the-art simulation tools.
• Demonstrably strong software skills for merging data, simulation methods, physical measurements, and qualitative inputs.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience working with industrial or laboratory partners in a collaborative project.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in the dynamic simulation of pressurized gas and fluid systems, or, in the trajectory planning, navigation, and adaptive response of mobile robotic platforms.
• High level of mastery of scientific computing and experience in multiple programming languages (C, MATLAB, Python, etc.) and/or simulation environments (Simulink, Promax, Aspen, etc.).
• Demonstrated competence with statistically uncertain data.
• Demonstrated experience iteratively developing complex software systems, such as digital twins.
• Demonstrated experience in creative visualization and animation of system operation and results.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment.
• Experience with data analysis, scientific writing, or specialized research techniques.

Conditions of Employment

• Applicant must be authorization to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship.
• Pre-employment Background Check-motor vehicle.
• Occasional travel.
• Work during non-standard hours is expected.

Application Instructions

To apply, please upload a resume and cover letter. This is an evergreen posting. Applications will be reviewed as hiring needs arise, and qualified applicants may be contacted by individual search committee members if a suitable opportunity becomes available. This pool will expire on December 31, 2026. Applicants wishing to be considered beyond this date must reapply.

Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it's a thriving community that's transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

• Review our detailed benefits information here.
• For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.
• Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!

Background Check Policy Statement

• Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students.
• To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer.
• Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.