Understanding nonlinear and multi-timescale behavior in complex physical systems is a central challenge in modern data-driven modeling and control. Many such systems—including plasma devices like hollow cathodes and Hall thrusters—exhibit high-dimensional parameter spaces in which some quantities contribute unique information, while others are redundant, correlated, or only indirectly indicative of the system’s true state. This research opportunity focuses broadly on exploring data orthogonality, causal and correlated structure discovery, and information-rich parameter identification in nonlinear dynamical systems.

The selected postdoctoral researcher will investigate how information content is distributed across measurable and controllable parameters, and how cross-time-scale interactions influence the reconstruction and prediction of system behavior. Example approaches may include information-theoretic metrics, transfer entropy, mutual information, Shadow Manifold Interpolation (SMI), time-lagged phase-portraits (TLPP), Gaussian Process Regression (GPR), nonlinear system identification, or other suitable tools proposed by the applicant. Although the research questions are general, hollow cathodes and Hall thrusters provide experimentally rich datasets and serve as motivating platforms for developing and testing new methodologies.

The scope of this opportunity is intentionally broad and supports applicants interested in theoretical development, algorithm design, simulation, or the analysis of archival experimental data. The work will contribute to NRL’s scientific mission and support data-driven modeling approaches relevant to the Navy and the warfighter. The postdoctoral researcher will be encouraged to publish results and present findings in appropriate scientific venues.

Information theory; Shadow Manifold Interpolation (SMI); Transfer entropy; Time-lagged-phase-portraits (TLPP); Parameter space; Cross-time-scale interdependencies; Gaussian Process Regression (GPR); Causation and correlation; Nonlinear, chaotic dynamics;

citizenship

Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents

level

Open to Postdoctoral applicants

Additional Benefits

relocation

Awardees who reside more than 50 miles from their host laboratory and remain on tenure for at least six months are eligible for paid relocation to within the vicinity of their host laboratory.

health insurance

A group health insurance program is available to awardees and their qualifying dependents in the United States.