NRL Electron Transpiration Cooling in Hypersonic Environments

---

Description

The U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) Spacecraft Propulsion Section, part of the Spacecraft Engineering Division, is conducting advanced research on electron transpiration cooling (ETC) technologies aimed at enhancing the cooling of aerodynamic surfaces in hypersonic environments. This research opportunity supports the development and experimental investigation of plasma-based cooling systems, including the measurement of plasma properties via in-situ probes, optical diagnostics, and thermal measurement techniques to better understand and improve ETC efficiency.

Candidates will translate fundamental plasma physics insights into novel ETC system designs, utilizing modern manufacturing methods for rapid prototyping and exploring new materials to meet program goals. The research environment includes access to high-vacuum test chambers, ultra-high vacuum material characterization facilities, a variety of plasma diagnostic tools, high-power laser equipment, and Department of Defense high-performance computing resources.

Ideal applicants have a strong background in low-temperature plasma physics, experience generating RF plasmas, proficiency with plasma diagnostics such as RF compensated Langmuir probes, materials characterization (e.g., X-Ray diffraction), and CAD skills. The candidate will collaborate with personnel in both the Propulsion and Hypersonic Sections of the Spacecraft Engineering Division.

Keywords

Thermionic Emission, Plasma, Cathode, Hypersonic, Aerodynamics, Aerothermal, Materials, Diagnostics, Instrumentation, Shock, Electron, Vacuum, Fluids, Modeling

---

Due Dates

• Application Deadline: May 1, 2025 (5:00 PM ET)

---

Funding Amount

• Base stipend: $99,200 per year
• Travel allowance: $3,000 annually
• Additional benefits: Paid relocation for awardees living more than 50 miles from host lab (after 6 months tenure), group health insurance for awardees and dependents
• Typical award duration: 2-3 years

---

Eligibility

• Citizenship: U.S. citizens and permanent residents only
• Applicant level: Postdoctoral researchers (Ph.D. earned less than 5 years before application deadline)
• Must not have current or recent prior affiliation with the Naval Research Laboratory that disqualifies eligibility (e.g., current employment or previous postdoctoral fellowship at NRL)
• Applicants must have completed all degree requirements before starting tenure
• Applicants must contact the Research Adviser prior to applying to discuss research projects and funding availability

---

Application Process

1. Review eligibility on the NRC RAP website and confirm suitability for this opportunity.
2. Contact the Research Adviser Michael S McDonald (michael.s.mcdonald80.civ@us.navy.mil, 202-404-3680) to discuss research interests and confirm support.
3. Prepare application materials including:
   • Profile information (contact, education, transcripts)
   • Research proposal (up to 10 pages) detailing problem statement, background, methodology, expected results, and significance
   • Previous and current research description (up to 4 pages)
   • List of publications and presentations (up to 2 pages)
   • Letters of recommendation (minimum 3, including dissertation adviser)
4. Submit application online via the NRC RAP portal before the May 1 deadline.
5. Ensure letters of recommendation are uploaded by letter writers by the deadline.
6. Applications are reviewed by expert panels; feedback is provided approximately one week after review finalization.

---

Additional Information

• The award provides access to state-of-the-art facilities and collaboration with leading scientists at NRL.
• Health insurance coverage is mandatory throughout the tenure.
• Relocation assistance is available for those moving more than 50 miles.
• Applicants should carefully follow formatting and submission guidelines to avoid disqualification.
• Previous NRC Research Associateship recipients may apply again only after a two-year gap since prior award termination.
• The program encourages diversity and provides equal opportunity regardless of race, gender, or background.

---

External Links

• NRC Research Associateship Programs Home
• Research Opportunity Details at NRL
• Application Instructions and Eligibility
• Applicant Guide (PDF)
• Visa Options for International Associates (PDF)

---

Contact Information