Detonation-based propulsion systems, like rotating detonation engines (RDEs), have the potential to provide improved performance (e.g., thrust, fuel economy, etc.) over those employing classical deflagration-based strategies. Within RDEs a detonation wave (or waves) continuously propagates between two coaxial cylinders in the direction perpendicular to the primary injected flow field. In this way, the detonation wave (or waves) can efficiently process injected fuel and oxidizer to produce thrust within a small, mechanically simple volume. However, due to the chaotic, highly non-linear, and strongly coupled nature of detonations, the ability to leverage the full potential of RDEs remains elusive. Elucidating fundamental aspects of detonations within RDEs is best achieved via non-intrusive laser- and optical-based measurements. Hence, there is a need to develop and employ novel optical diagnostic techniques to increase understanding of the complex physics governing RDE operation.

To meet this need, our group (see details below) is seeking a highly motivated, skilled, and clever research scientist to optimize and deploy novel diagnostic techniques within a highly modular, research-grade RDE. A wide range of measurements are of interest, which may leverage laser-based techniques such as (but not limited to): Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS), Planar Laser-Induced Fluorescence (PLIF) imaging, Rayleigh and/or Filtered Rayleigh Scattering, Spontaneous Raman Scattering, and/or Coherent Anti-Stokes Raman Scattering (CARS).  

The researcher will be based in the Combustion Branch of the Turbine Engine Division within the Aerospace Systems Directorate of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL/RQTC) located on Wright-Patterson AFB, OH. The Combustion Branch provides access to world-class facilities that can enable experimental studies of combustion phenomena relevant to practical systems (e.g., detonations; high pressures and/or temperatures; large, sustained flowrates, etc.). In particular, the combustion branch in home to numerous research-grade RDEs, including several with significant optical access. The Combustion Branch is also equipped with state-of-the-art optical diagnostics, including but not limited to: high-power, continuous pulsed nanosecond lasers (both low- and high-speed systems); burst-mode lasers (for high-power output at kHz rep-rates); high-resolution EMCCD cameras; high-speed cameras (up to 10 million frames per second); pico- and femtosecond lasers; low- and high-speed image intensifiers; and all additional support equipment (oscilloscopes, delay generators, photodiodes, optics, optomechanics, etc.). Finally, to facilitate robust data analysis and/or modeling and simulation efforts, the Combustion Branch has access to state-of-the-art computational resources including the Department of Defense’s High-Performance Computing (HPC) centers.

Recent Related Research

[1] Wang, R. B., Webb, A. M., Athmanathan, V., Slipchenko, M. N., Kearney, S. P., Perkins, H. D., Roy, S., Fugger, C. A., & Meyer, T. R. (2024). “500-kHz OH PLIF and OH* chemiluminescence imaging of deflagration and rotating detonation in CH4-O2 and H2-air mixtures.” Proc. Combust. Inst., 40, 105770.

[2] Kuenning, N. M., Nair, A. P., Keller, A. R., Minesi, N. Q., Ozen, E., Bigler, B., Kriesel, J., Bennewitz, J. W., Burr, J., Danczyk, S. A., & Spearrin, R. M. “Multiplexed MHz-rate mid-infrared laser absorption spectroscopy for simultaneous in-chamber CO, CO2, H2O, temperature, and pressure in a rotating detonation rocket engine.” Combust. Flame, 268 (2024).

[3] Rojas Chavez S.B., Chatelain K.P., Lacoste D.A., “Two-dimensional visualization of induction zone in hydrogen detonations,” Combust. Flame, 255 (2023)

Distribution Statement A: Approved for Public Release; Distribution is Unlimited. PA# AFRL-2025-4439

Detonations; Laser Diagnostics; Rotating Detonation Engines; Combustion; Optical Measurements; Data analysis; Tomography; Image Processing;

citizenship

Open to U.S. citizens

level

Open to Postdoctoral and Senior 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.