Open position at the von Karman Institute for Fluid Dynamics - Belgium

2-years Post-Doc in ultrasonic imaging for liquid metal applications
The opaque nature of the liquid metal coolant that will be used for the next generation of nuclear
reactors excludes the use of any conventional optical methods to inspect the internal reactor structures
that are submerged in the reactor vessel. Ultrasonic imaging system can be deployed in the reactor
pool to help the fuel loading process and inspect the internal structures to ensure proper operation of
the reactor. The fundamentals of ultrasonic imaging are already known for several decades and are
readily used in medical imaging as well as in naval sonar and non destructive material testing
applications. Nevertheless the use of ultrasonic imaging techniques for application in a nuclear
environment under liquid metal requires some new development effort.
The Environmental and Applied Fluid Dynamics (EA) Department of the von Karman Institute (VKI)
invites applications from highly-qualified individuals committed to research relevant to ultrasonic
imaging for nuclear applications.
Candidates with strong background in acoustics and related experimental techniques are especially
encouraged to apply. Areas of particular relevance include (but are not limited to):
 Experimental / numerical acoustics
 Ultrasonic imaging and related signal processing techniques
 Liquid metal flows
The candidate is expected to design, supervise and conduct lab experiments for the assessment of
ultrasonic imaging techniques. The targeted application is the monitoring of the operation, and remedy
of failing fuel loading, in the liquid Lead-Bismuth Eutectic (LBE) metal-cooled experimental reactor
MYRRHA (see http://myrrha.sckcen.be/ for further information). He/she will have the leadership,
vision and motivation to drive and implement the research strategy, in collaboration with a team of
researchers including faculty members, research engineers and Research Master students.
Applicants must have an earned doctorate in Mechanical Engineering or Physics on a subject relevant
to ultrasonics. Prior experience in the management of research contract is a strong asset. Rank, tenure
status, and salary will be commensurate with experience and accomplishments. Candidates should
have a working knowledge of English.
Applications should include a motivation letter, curriculum vitae, a list of publications and the name
and contact details (including e-mail) of at least 2 references. Applications are welcomed until
February 29th, 2012. Potential candidates are invited to visit the VKI web site for more information on
current activities of EA department: http://www.vki.ac.be.
Contact Information:
Dr. C. Schram, Assistant Professor
von Karman Institute for Fluid Dynamics
Chaussée de Waterloo, 72
1640 Rhode-St-Genèse, Belgium
E-mail: schram@vki.ac.be
Phone: +32 2 359 96 15