Lucas J. Kimes Postdoctoral Fellowship

Job Summary

The Department of Geological Sciences at the University of Colorado Boulder invites applications for the Lucas J. Kimes Postdoctoral Fellowship. The Fellowship is designed to support early-career scientists and to enhance diversity in the geosciences by providing mentorship and research opportunities. The Department seeks candidates from a wide range of backgrounds to contribute to innovative research in the Earth sciences.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

The University of Colorado at Boulder sits at the intersection of the high plains and the Rocky Mountains, offering a natural laboratory for geological research. The department supports research in rock and mineral deformation, soils, sedimentation, geomicrobial processes, petrology, isotope geochemistry, and mineralogy, and provides access to shared analytical facilities across the CU Boulder campus.

• Full‑time mentored research and/or scholarship and field-appropriate professional activities in preparation for transition into a career.
• Conduct research under direct mentorship, submit fellowship and/or grant applications, draft and submit publications, present at national and international meetings, mentor junior trainees, and participate in responsible conduct and professional skills training.
• Engage in secondary responsibilities such as lab management as part of professional development.

• PhD in Geosciences or a related field, conferred by the anticipated start date.

Annual salary: $60,000–$65,000 (2‑year position). Benefits include medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for the applicant and dependents; an ECO Pass for local transit; and other perks through the CU Advantage program.

• Cover letter identifying the proposed mentor(s) and confirming a discussion of the fellowship research.
• Curriculum vitae.
• Personal statement (max 2,000 words, single‑spaced, 4 pages) covering research accomplishments to date, proposed research plan, future career goals, and perspectives to be offered to the CU Boulder community.
• Letters of recommendation (one must be from the proposed mentor).
• Three professional references.

Applications will be accepted through CU Boulder Jobs until January 30, 2026. Note that application materials will not be accepted via email. All personal data may be redacted under the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act without penalty.

June 1, 2026