Research Associate: Computational Solid Mechanics

Job Summary

The Center for National Security Initiatives at CU Boulder is inviting applications for a research position focused on Computational Solid Mechanics at the Postdoctoral Associate, Research Associate or Principal Research Associate level. The role will support the growth of CU Boulder's National Security research enterprise and report to leadership within the Center for National Security Initiatives (NSI) and the Research & Innovation Office (RIO).

Applicants will develop groundbreaking research, identify new sponsored research opportunities with Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community (IC) partners, and prepare and execute strategic proposals in collaboration with CU Boulder faculty and NSI researchers. The emphasis is on applied research in National Security.

Requires expertise in advanced computational tools for analyzing material and structural performance in extreme environments. Specific application areas include:

• Hypersonic systems – material response including ablation and pyrolysis.
• Laser–material interactions – ablation, phase change.
• Energetic materials – structural response, combustion, phase change, surface chemistry, and microstructural effects.

The successful candidate will work in a multi‑disciplinary team, develop simulation capabilities within a software best‑practice environment (version control, build systems, continuous integration, deployment, computational environment management), and demonstrate experience with boundary‑value problem solvers (e.g., finite element) using modern programming languages such as C/C++/Python/Julia.

• Develop and execute research proposals, tasks, and deliverables for DoD, IC, and Aerospace & Defense Industry customers.
• Build a nationally recognized research program in National Security that supports NSI missions.
• Provide technical leadership on research projects and coordinate across academic departments for interdisciplinary efforts.
• Summarize results and provide documentation and software/hardware deliverables to sponsors.
• Engage Government & Industry sponsors, with NSI staff support, to shape research opportunities and secure contracts.
• Communicate key challenges and R&D priorities to enhance CU Boulder's applied research portfolio.
• Recommend prioritization of new sponsored research opportunities to NSI leadership.
• Leverage a professional network with key customers, influencers, and decision makers in the national security community to gain insight into strategic direction, policies, and R&D priorities.

• The position is limited to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees and requires the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance.
• Travel outside the state will be required.
• Irregular work hours, including evenings and weekends, may be required.

• A competitive salary commensurate with experience and a generous benefits package.
• Salary ranges based on level and experience:
  • Postdoctoral Associate: $80,000 – $100,000 annually
  • Research Associate: $85,000 – $150,000 annually
  • Principal Research Associate: $145,000 – $190,000 annually
• Relocation expenses may be available per NSI and University of Colorado policies.

At CU Boulder we support holistic health and well‑being. Benefits include medical, dental, pension plans, generous paid time off, tuition assistance for you and dependents, and an ECO Pass for local transit. Additional perks and programs are available through the CU Advantage program.

• PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Research Associate: minimum three years of research experience in academia, the aerospace and defense industry, or government.
• Principal Research Associate: minimum six years of research experience in academia, the aerospace and defense industry, or government.
• Proved expertise in the computational solid mechanics focus areas.

• Demonstrated record of success and credibility within national security and academic communities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; strong interpersonal skills.
• High‑level…