Post-doctoral research appointment
09/IIND-07 - Thermal Sciences, Energy Technology, Building Physics And Nuclear Engineering
Uni. Pavia
Posted on: 09/11/2026
Deadline: 09/12/2026
2026-IpdDip-05-dicar - Modelling, Design and Validation of High-Temperature Liquid-Metal Pulsating Heat Pipes for Space Thermal Control
The research program concerns the development of advanced technologies for high-temperature thermal control in space within the ASI MICONS project. The position will focus on thermo-fluid-dynamic modelling, design and validation of Flat Plate Pulsating Heat Pipes (FPPHPs) operating with liquid metals in the 450–900 °C range. Activities will include the development and use of numerical models, analysis of evaporation, condensation and two-phase flow phenomena, parametric simulations to optimize geometries and operating conditions, comparison with experimental data, and support to prototype design. The work will also include critical performance assessment, preparation of design guidelines and scientific publications.
Selection process
The application for admission to the selection procedure (dated and signed),the documents and publications considered useful for the evaluation must be submitted, under penalty of exclusion, electronically, by visiting the following web page: https://pica.cineca.it/unipv/tipologia/idr selecting the Competition Notice you have chosen. In order to register with the system, you must have an email address. Following the guidelines published in the procedure, the applicant must enter all the information required for the application, enclosing all documents in electronic .PDF format. The selection of candidates is carried out on the basis of qualifications and interview, supplemented by a test of knowledge of the foreign language (see Art. 1 par. 1 Call for applications).
The public call with detailed attendance and selection rules (Art 4 and 6) can be found at: https://pica.cineca.it/unipv/tipologia/idrThe selections are open to candidates, Italian or foreigner, in possession, on the date of the deadline for submitting applications for the admission to the selection, of a research doctorate (PhD) or equivalent qualification obtained abroad, or, for the sectors concerned, a medical specialization qualification. The educational qualification has to concern the research theme.Further specific assessable qualifications (see Art. 1 par. 1 Call for applications): The position requires a solid background in thermo-fluid dynamics and heat transfer. Preferential qualifications include a Master’s degree or equivalent foreign qualification in Mechanical Engineering and a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Energy Engineering or a related field with thesis work on heat pipes, loop heat pipes, pulsating heat pipes or other passive two-phase systems. Particular value will be given to experience in numerical modelling, design, manufacturing and experimental characterization of heat pipes, as well as in evaporation and condensation, porous media, two-phase flows and miniaturized devices for electronics thermal management. Additional merits include experience in space applications or reduced-gravity conditions, participation in international research projects, relevant scientific publications, data-analysis skills and competence with MATLAB/Octave, LabVIEW and CFD/multiphysics software. Outstanding command of English and the ability to work in interdisciplinary teams are required.