CFD & Propulsion Intern

ABOUT THE ROLE

As a CFD & Propulsion Intern, you will assist in the design, analysis, simulation, and testing of aerodynamic and propulsion systems for AnduraX's reusable re-entry vehicle and future propulsion technologies. You will work on Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), propulsion system design, internal and external flow analysis, thermal-fluid systems, and experimental validation. This role combines simulation with hands-on engineering, providing exposure to propulsion hardware development, engine testing, and multidisciplinary vehicle design.

RESPONSIBILITY

• Perform CFD simulations for external aerodynamics and internal flow applications using industry-standard software.
• Assist in the aerodynamic analysis of lifting bodies, control surfaces, and re-entry vehicle configurations.
• Support propulsion flow simulations involving injectors, combustion chambers, nozzles, and feed systems.
• Assist in mesh generation, boundary condition setup, solver configuration, and result post-processing.
• Perform engineering calculations for fluid flow, heat transfer, compressible flow, and propulsion performance.
• Support the design and sizing of propulsion components such as injectors, nozzles, valves, tanks, and feed systems.
• Participate in propulsion testing, cold-flow testing, and experimental validation activities.
• Analyse simulation and test data to validate models and recommend design improvements.
• Assist in preparing engineering reports, technical documentation, and design presentations.
• Collaborate with Aerodynamics, Structures, Mechanical Systems, Avionics, GNC, and Systems Engineering teams throughout the product development cycle.
• Participate in prototype development, subsystem integration, and flight campaign preparations.

REQUIREMENTS

• Pursuing or recently completed B.Tech/B.E. or M.Tech in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Strong fundamentals in Fluid Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Heat Transfer, Compressible Flow, and Engineering Mathematics.
• Basic understanding of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and numerical simulation techniques.
• Familiarity with aerodynamic principles and rocket propulsion fundamentals.
• Basic understanding of propulsion systems, nozzles, injectors, and fluid flow networks.
• Experience with CFD software such as ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, STAR-CCM+, SU2, or equivalent.
• Familiarity with MATLAB or Python for engineering analysis.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with an interest in experimental validation and testing.

PREFERRED SKILLS

• Experience with Formula Student, SAE Aero Design, CanSat, Rocketry, CubeSat, UAV, or similar engineering projects.
• Hands-on experience with CFD simulations and aerodynamic analysis.
• Exposure to rocket propulsion, combustion, or thermal-fluid engineering projects.
• Familiarity with mesh generation, post-processing, and simulation validation techniques.
• Experience with MATLAB, Python, or engineering scripting tools.
• Knowledge of wind tunnel testing, propulsion testing, or experimental fluid mechanics.
• Exposure to NASA CEA, RocketCEA, or propulsion performance analysis tools.
• Understanding of the aerospace product development lifecycle.