202 FRIB Graduate Brochure

What is cryogenic engineering?
Cryogenic engineering is the design of thermal process
equipment and systems that operate at cryogenic
temperature (that is at or below the temperature
necessary to liquefy natural gas). It requires the:
• Engineering design of complex and interdependent
mechanical-thermal systems;
• Integrated application of mechanical design,
thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer.
Fulfills national need
The demand for cryogenic engineering support has
continued to increased in the last decade. Having FRIB
at MSU offers a unique opportunity to educate and train
the next generation of cryogenic system innovators
to prepare them for job opportunities in cryogenics
engineering and related fields.
Student opportunities
Train with leading faculty, academic staff, and industry
experts. MSU’s engineering program is rated one of the top
in the United States, and is one of the largest and oldest
colleges on the campus. Get hands-on training on FRIB’s
state-of-the-art systems. FRIB will have unprecedented
capabilities to study the fundamental structure of matter.
The 4.5- and 2-kelvin helium refrigeration systems
supporting the superconducting accelerator are stateof-the-art,
enabling world class physics research. There
are also several helium refrigeration systems supporting
laboratory test facilities, including those dedicated to
cryogenic engineering research and development.
Career opportunities for cryogenic
engineers
• DOE laboratories and user facilities (like FRIB)
• National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
• International laboratories
• Large aerospace energy, and industrial corporations
• Many cryogenic-specific companies
Graduate fellowships
Graduate fellowships are available. Self-motivated,
naturally curious, creative, practical, and analytical
graduate students are attractive candidates for fellowships.
Undergraduate thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, heat
transfer, materials engineering, mechanical design, and
computer programming are prerequisites. Advanced
coursework in any or all of these areas is highly desirable.
Learn more at frib.msu.edu/cryo
Student jobs, internships, and careers
Training in cryogenic engineering opens up career
opportunities in various fields. Cryogenic engineering:
MSU Cryogenic Initiative students in the FRIB cryogenic plant.
• Exposes students to coupled fluid-dynamics and
thermodynamics and to real fluid properties and
material properties over a wide temperature range
not typically encountered in industry;
• Requires a clear understanding of engineering
principles, with many opportunities for
complex simulation and modeling, and creative
problem-solving;
• Involves complex and coupled thermal systems and
mechanical designs.
This exposure and experience are assets in many potential
engineering careers. Cryogenic engineering is an industry
with high-paying job opportunities with a present need.
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