Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Consultant – Subsurface & Geothermal
Remote
Portfolio Company /
Contractor /
Remote
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.
