Research Engineer in CFD Modelling of VOCs in Cropping Systems

Develop advanced CFD models to simulate and optimize volatile organic compound dispersion for agroecological pest control.

Best for:Best for fluid dynamics researchers and engineers with strong Ansys Fluent skills and an interest in agricultural and environmental modeling.

INRAE · Avignon, France · R2 · Recognised researcher

More professors at INRAE

Computational Fluid DynamicsVolatile Organic CompoundsAgroecologyBiocontrolPlant Canopy MechanicsMicroclimate Modeling

This is a research staff position — not a PhD studentship.

Deadline

—

Funding

Salaried

€2.8k/mo

Start date

2027-02-01

Temporary

Location

Avignon

France

Overview

The French National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food, and Environment (INRAE) is seeking a research engineer to join the Horticultural Plants and Cropping Systems (PSH) unit in Avignon, France. Working within the TransThrips project under the PEPR Agroecology and Digital Technology framework, the successful candidate will develop computational fluid dynamics models to study the transport and dispersion of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The appointee will couple simulation tools with meteorological and canopy data to optimize natural biocontrol strategies against thrips populations. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to sustainable Mediterranean horticultural systems through interdisciplinary modeling and digital technology.

CFD modellingAnsys Fluentagroecologyvolatile organic compoundscrop protectionfluid mechanicsnumerical simulationenvironmental physics

What you'll do

Design and implement computational fluid dynamics models to simulate VOC transport, convection, and molecular diffusion within diverse cropping systems.
Integrate plant canopy architecture, airflow dynamics, and micrometeorological data into simulation frameworks.
Establish calibration and validation protocols using experimental project data to evaluate prediction accuracy and quantify uncertainties.
Simulate various agroecological scenarios by adjusting parameters such as planting density, crop layout, and dispenser placement to optimize dispersion uniformity.
Contribute to scientific publications, project deliverables, and presentations at national and international conferences.

Requirements

Degree required: PhD or engineering degree in fluid mechanics, numerical modelling, or agricultural engineering

Language: Ability to communicate in French and English

Instruction: French and English

Required skills

Proficiency in computational fluid dynamics and numerical simulation tools
Experience with Ansys Fluent or equivalent CFD software
Background in scientific computing and experimental data processing
Strong analytical, synthesis, and autonomous problem-solving abilities
Capacity to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary research consortia

Nice to have

Knowledge of chemical ecology and plant physiologyFamiliarity with micrometeorology and environmental data collectionPrior experience in developing complex CFD models for environmental or biological applicationsParticipation in collaborative research projects and scientific dissemination

Funding & terms

Type

Salaried

Amount

€2.8k/mo

Duration

24 months

Programme

PEPR Agroecology and Digital Technology (TransThrips project)

INRAE / French National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food, and Environment

How to apply

Deadline: 2026-09-30

Prepare your curriculum vitae and a detailed motivation letter. Send your application materials via email directly to the listed contact addresses before the deadline.

Documents required