Postdoctoral Fellow; SHIELD

Postdoctoral Fellow (SHIELD)

The Jackson School of Geosciences at the University of Texas at Austin invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher to study Earth hazards under the initiative Project SHIELD (Science for Hazards, Impact, Evaluation, and Long-term Defense). The successful candidate will develop integrative research approaches to investigate Earth hazards from fundamental physics principles to risk determinations that closely align with societal needs. Interested candidates are encouraged to read the Project SHIELD business plan and discuss potential projects with two or more JSG faculty/researchers.

Project SHIELD aims to understand fundamental processes related to Earth hazards and deliver accurate, impactful hazard and risk science to stakeholders in a timely manner. From volcanoes to earthquakes, landslides to tsunamis, floods to heatwaves, the U.S. and Earth are constantly exposed to natural hazards. The appointment is for two years
, contingent on performance, with a negotiable start date.

• Conduct Earth hazards research that aligns with Project SHIELD’s goals.
• Work closely with two or more JSG faculty/researchers, Project SHIELD leadership, and stakeholders.
• Present research results to the scientific community and the broader public.
• Contribute to research within a vibrant group of students, postdocs, and researchers across UT.

• Ph.D. in a field relevant to Earth hazards (geophysics, atmospheric and oceanic sciences, hydrology, or allied disciplines), completed within the last three years.
• Research experience with Earth hazards and relevant datasets.

• Experience engaging with stakeholders responsible for Earth hazard risk management.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong publication record in closely related research topics.

$70,000

• Typical office environment.

• Cover letter and resume (including a list of publications)
• Research proposal (up to two pages)
• Letter of recommendation (1‑page) from two potential JSG mentors (faculty/researchers)
• Contact information of three references
• The research proposal and support letters should include how this research contributes to the goals of Project SHIELD and expands current capabilities with strong stakeholder engagement.

Please make sure you meet all the required qualifications and you can perform all of the essential functions with or without a reasonable accommodation.

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal‑opportunity / affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

A criminal history background check will be required for finalist(s) under consideration for this position.

Those who are not current university employees or contingent workers must submit a resume when first applying and may upload a new resume for subsequent applications. All required materials, including letters of interest and references, must be uploaded before submitting the application. Once submitted, the application cannot be changed.

Current university employees and contingent workers must apply within Workday by searching for Find UT Jobs. Employees must update their Worker Profile in Workday before applying. The application is one page and you will be prompted to upload a resume. Additional required materials must be uploaded through the application questions.

Enjoy pay transparency: the University will not discriminate based on pay inquiries. Failure to complete the Employment Eligibility Verification (I‑9) within three days of employment may result in loss of employment.