Roadrunner Venture Studios
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Consultant – Subsurface & Geothermal
Be an Early Applicant
The CFD Consultant will adapt existing models to simulate geothermal well conditions and collaborate with the technical team, committing approximately 10 hours per month.
About Us
We are an early-stage geothermal company developing novel approaches to subsurface energy extraction and downhole heat exchangers. Our team works at the intersection of geoscience, fluid mechanics, and renewable energy systems, with a mission to translate cutting-edge research into practical clean-energy technologies.
Role Overview
We are seeking a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Consultant with a strong academic foundation in subsurface modeling (oil & gas or geothermal). This flexible consulting role is ideal for a PhD student or postdoc interested in applying their research expertise in a real-world, industry-relevant setting.
The consultant will adapt and extend existing CFD models to simulate geothermal well conditions, focusing on pressure and temperature fields, and the physics of downhole heat exchangers.
Commitment: ~10 hours per month (part-time consulting)
Key Responsibilities
- Adapt and enhance existing subsurface CFD models for geothermal well applications.
- Simulate pressure and temperature fields and capture the coupled physics of downhole heat exchangers.
- Apply open-source numerical frameworks such as PETSc or OpenGeoSys for solver development and refinement.
- Provide concise deliverables and progress updates within ~10 hours/month of consulting time.
- Collaborate with the technical team to align modeling assumptions with engineering requirements.
Qualifications
- Current PhD student or postdoctoral researcher in mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, geoscience, applied mathematics, or a related discipline.
- Demonstrated experience in computational fluid dynamics with applications to subsurface, reservoir, or geothermal systems.
- Proficiency in numerical methods and open-source computational libraries (e.g., PETSc, OpenGeoSys).
- Familiarity with coupled thermal–fluid physics and porous media modeling.
- Ability to work independently with limited time while producing academically rigorous results.
- Ability to work without conflict to other obligations, employment and contracts
What We Offer
- Flexible commitment (~10 hours/month), compatible with PhD/postdoc schedules.
- A unique chance to apply academic research skills in a translational energy technology environment.
- Insight into startup-driven innovation and exposure to industry perspectives.
- Opportunity to build a track record of applied consulting while continuing your academic work.
Roadrunner Venture Studios is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer that proudly pursues and hires a diverse workforce. We do not make hiring or employment decisions on the basis of race, color, religion or religious belief, ethnic or national origin, nationality, sex, gender, gender-identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable local, state, or federal laws or prohibited by Company policy. We strive for a healthy and safe workplace and strictly prohibit harassment of any kind.
Top Skills
Cfd
Opengeosys
Petsc
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