Postdoctoral Fellow; SHIELD

Job Posting

Title:

Postdoctoral Fellow (SHIELD)

Hiring Department: Institute for Geophysics

Position Open To: All Applicants

Weekly Scheduled

Hours:

40

FLSA Status: Exempt

Earliest

Start Date:

Immediately

Position Duration: Expected to Continue Until Feb 01, 2027

Location: PICKLE RESEARCH CAMPUS

Purpose

The Jackson School of Geosciences at the University of Texas at Austin invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher to study Earth hazards under the Project SHIELD initiative (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. The successful candidate is expected to pursue self‑directed Earth hazard research, aligned with Project SHIELD's goals, building on and expanding existing JSG expertise. Applicants should have a strong background in Earth hazard research, experience analyzing relevant datasets, strong scientific communication skills, and preferably experience in stakeholder engagement.

The position is for 12 months with a negotiable start date. There is a possibility of renewal for up to an additional 12 months contingent on performance. For full consideration, applications should be submitted by January 30, 2026.

• 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)
• A 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.

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.

The University of Texas at Austin will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise…