Understanding the extent of chemical decomposition in shocked high explosives

About this program

The National Research Council's Research Associateship Programs (RAP), hosted through the Air Force Science and Technology Fellowship Program at the Munitions Directorate (RW/Ordnance Division), Eglin AFB, FL, seeks postdoctoral and senior researchers to quantify chemical decomposition during shock initiation and detonation in solid high explosives and to develop improved reactive-flow parameterizations using laser-driven milligram-scale shocks and time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The project focuses on measuring gaseous products and molecular velocities to refine extent-of-reaction descriptions (e.g., improving single-parameter reactive burn models) and offers hands-on training in sample preparation, laser shock techniques, chemical diagnostics, and data analysis. Awards provide a base stipend of $95,000 plus a $5,000 travel allotment, with experience-based stipend supplements and possible benefits such as paid relocation (for those >50 miles who remain ≥6 months) and group health insurance. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and may apply at the postdoctoral or senior level; eligibility and stipend scale depend on years of experience beyond the PhD.