Computational Fault Mechanics - Postdoctoral Researcher

About the role

We have an opening for a Postdoctoral Researcher to conduct computational research in fault mechanics, earthquake physics, and geomechanics. You will develop and apply numerical models to investigate fault slip, stress evolution, and coupled mechanical, hydrologic, and thermal processes in geologic materials.

Working with a multidisciplinary team, you will use high-performance computing and advanced simulation methods to improve understanding of fault-system behavior and its implications for seismic hazard, subsurface energy applications, and national security. This position is in the Atmospheric, Earth, and Energy Division within the Physical and Life Sciences Directorate.

In this role, you will Develop, implement, and apply computational models of fault mechanics and geologic deformation. Conduct simulations of quasi-static or quasi-dynamic rupture, fault slip, and related multi-physics processes. Analyze numerical simulation results alongside laboratory, field, and observational geophysical data. Contribute to model verification, validation, and comparison with observations.

Use high-performance computing resources and modern scientific software practices. Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and external research partners. Publish results in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences and technical meetings. Pursue complementary independent research interests that support project objectives. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Ph.D. in geophysics, geomechanics, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, applied mathematics, computational science, or a related field.
• Experience with numerical discretization methods for partial differential equations.
• Experience in computational modeling of geomechanical systems.
• Knowledge of continuum mechanics, friction laws, and nonlinear material behavior.
• Proficiency in C/C++ programming language.

• Experience working in Linux-based high-performance computing environments.
• Record of publishing peer-reviewed research.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment.

Pay and benefits

We Desire Knowledge of the GEOS multiphysics modeling framework or similar codes. Experience with mortar methods, augmented Lagrangian methods, and/or related computational contact algorithms for frictional interfaces and fault mechanics. Familiarity with earthquake physics, induced seismicity, geothermal energy, carbon storage, or subsurface engineering applications.

Experience with parallel computing, scalable workflows, version control, or scientific code development. Experience using agentic SI (Super Intelligence, formerly referred to as Artificial Intelligence, or AI) tools to support scientific software development, computational workflow automation, data analysis, or research productivity.

Pay Range $123,048 Annually This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An employee's position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs.

Additional Information

Position Information This is a Postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of extension to a maximum of three years. The postdoctoral appointment is a temporary, mentored training position intended for individuals in the early stages of their postdoctoral research careers.

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