The Medical Modeling & Simulation Laboratory at Old Dominion University (ODU) is 
seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join a multidisciplinary research 
program at the intersection of computational fluid dynamics (CFD), fluid–
structure interaction (FSI), biomechanics, and physiological modeling.


This position is part of ODU’s rapidly expanding medical–engineering ecosystem 
following its new R1 designation, its historic merger with Eastern Virginia 
Medical School (EVMS), and the establishment of EnMed – the Institute for 
Engineering in Medicine, Health, and Human Performance.

The selected student will collaborate closely with partners across ODU, EVMS, 
Sentara Healthcare, VMASC, and EnMed, with opportunities to interact with 
clinicians and computational scientists on translational, high-impact projects.


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About the Research (Medical Modeling & Simulation Laboratory)


The lab focuses on developing physics-based computational models of human 
physiology with emphasis on:

• High-fidelity simulations of physiological flow in patient-specific or 
anatomically realistic geometries

• Fluid–structure interaction modeling of tissues, valves, and dynamic 
biological systems

• Integrating advanced numerical methods into studies of health, disease, and 
medical device performance

• Creating next-generation computational tools and digital-twin frameworks for 
medicine


Students will work in a collaborative environment combining engineering, 
medicine, and high-performance computing.


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Required Candidate Characteristics


We prioritize character, mindset, and research drive over specific technical 
checkboxes.

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Strong problem-solving skills

• Critical thinking and analytical reasoning

• High curiosity and enthusiasm for research

• Self-motivation and ability to work independently

• Strong collaboration and teamwork skills

• Clear communication abilities

• Persistence, adaptability, and willingness to learn

• Professionalism, reliability, and strong work ethic


Students who embody these traits will be successful even if they are new to 
CFD/FSI.


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Preferred / Desired Technical Background


(Not required – students with strong motivation are encouraged to apply even 
without these skills.)

• Background in mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, applied 
mathematics, physics, or related STEM fields

• Exposure to continuum mechanics, fluid dynamics, or structural mechanics

• Interest or experience in CFD, FEA, or FSI

• Programming familiarity with C++, Python, or MATLAB

• Experience with numerical methods (FVM, FEM, FDM)

• CAD experience (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Creo) for geometry/mesh prep


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Why Join ODU’s Medical Modeling & Simulation Laboratory?


ODU provides a unique environment combining engineering, medicine, and 
computation:

• R1 University (Very High Research Activity)

• Integrated ODU–EVMS academic health system supporting engineering–medicine 
collaboration

• New EnMed Institute, advancing engineering solutions in health and human 
performance

• Close partnerships with Sentara Healthcare, including Sentara Heart Hospital

• VMASC (Virginia Modeling, Analysis & Simulation Center) – nationally 
recognized leader in modeling & simulation

• Strong HPC infrastructure for large-scale simulations

• Access to clinicians, imaging data, translational projects, and 
interdisciplinary collaborations


The position offers an exceptional platform for a student aspiring to work at 
the cutting edge of computational medicine.


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Application Instructions


Send the following:

• CV

• Brief statement of research interests or motivation

• Contact information for 2-3 references


Send to: jhlee@odu.edu


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Start Date


Fall 2026


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Location


Norfolk, Virginia – part of the Hampton Roads coastal research corridor with 
strong clinical and engineering partnerships.