Geologist III

Geologist III

Job Title: Geologist III

Requisition Number: RE52440
Working Title: Geologist Aqueous Geochemist
Department Name: 40520:

KY Geological Survey
Work Location: Lexington, KY
Grade Level: 46
Salary Range: $52,/year
Type Of Position: Staff
Position Time Status: Full-Time
Required

Education:

PhD
Required Related

Experience:

3 yrs
Required License/Registration/Certification: None
Physical Requirements: Independently traverse rough terrain for field work. Periodic lifting of 50lbs or less. Sitting or standing for long periods of time.
Shift: Monday – Friday; 8:00am to 5:00pm.

The Kentucky Geological Survey (KGS) seeks an applied aqueous geochemist to join our team (Geologist III). This position will lead the development of a new KGS research program focused on the chemistry of deep basin brines, produced waters, formation fluids, and shallow groundwater systems across the Commonwealth. A core responsibility of this position will be to establish Kentucky’s first comprehensive statewide groundwater and brine geochemistry program.

This includes designing sampling strategies, implementing analytical workflows, establishing QA/QC protocols, and building a long‑term database for subsurface fluid chemistry that will serve researchers, state agencies, industry partners, and the public.

• Geochemical characterization of basin brines and produced waters
• Critical minerals in brines and opportunities for fluid‑derived mineral resources
• Water–rock interactions and reservoir fluid evolution
• Groundwater contamination, solute transport, and baseline water chemistry
• Applied environmental geochemistry of legacy oil and gas fields, and other energy infrastructure
• Integration of fluid chemistry with stratigraphy, structure, petroleum systems, and basin evolution

KGS maintains statewide geologic and subsurface datasets—such as drill cores, well logs, seismic reflection data, and mapping products—that support interpretations of fluid origins and movement. Laboratory capabilities (ICP‑OES, ICP‑MS, XRD, SEM, pXRF, etc.) and field equipment are available to support aqueous geochemistry research. The new hire will be responsible for expanding these capabilities through new datasets, new methods, and new collaborations.

This is a full‑time, externally funded term position, with the potential for continuation contingent on performance and the availability of funding.

Given the societal importance of water quality and subsurface fluid management in Kentucky, effective communication and stakeholder engagement are essential. The position offers opportunities to collaborate with state agencies, federal partners, industry, and academic researchers. Opportunities for adjunct appointments at the University of Kentucky are also possible, and we welcome candidates interested in mentoring students and contributing to graduate education.

• Ph.D. in geoscience, geochemistry, hydrogeology, or a related field from an accredited university.
• 3 years of related experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in aqueous geochemistry, groundwater/brine sampling, and geochemical data interpretation.
• Experience with geochemical modeling tools (PHREEQC, Geochemist’s Workbench) highly desirable.
• 5+ years of Driver’s license.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

Please contact Dr. Michael McGlue (michael.mcglue) for more information. The first review of application materials (CV, cover letter, and research statement) will begin on January 5th. A research statement for Specific Request 1 is required. Letters of reference will be requested following the first review. Final date to receive applications: 01/05/2026.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus. Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre‑employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.