Postdoctoral Researcher

Postdoctoral Researcher

The Department of Geology and Geological Engineering at South Dakota Mines is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to support a newly funded U.S. Department of Energy project focused on advanced sensing and characterization for critical minerals. The postdoctoral researcher will primarily lead and support research in experimental rock mechanics, block-scale laboratory testing, and mechanical development of sensing tool prototypes. The position will involve close collaboration with an interdisciplinary team.

This is a full-time, benefited position.

Primary Responsibilities

• Design, prepare, and characterize synthetic rock blocks for controlled laboratory experiments.
• Develop and conduct block-scale experiments under relevant subsurface conditions.
• Assist with the mechanical design, fabrication, assembly, and integration of downhole tools.
• Design experimental fixtures, pressure chambers, tool housings, and other mechanical components.
• Install and integrate sensors, instrumentation, data-acquisition, and experimental control components.
• Contribute to technical reports, project meetings, journal publications, and conference presentations.

Required Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in geological engineering, petroleum engineering, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, geomechanics, rock mechanics, or a closely related field by the position start date.
• Strong background in experimental rock mechanics, geomechanics, or rock-physics testing.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience in laboratory experiment design, equipment operation, or experimental system development.
• Ability to independently plan, conduct, troubleshoot, and document laboratory experiments.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and effectively within a multidisciplinary research team.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in one or more of the following areas is highly desirable: preparation, casting, machining, or characterization of synthetic rocks, geomaterials, or ore analogs.
• Mechanical design using Solid Works, AutoCAD, or similar software.
• Downhole tools, wireline logging systems, drilling tools, or subsurface instrumentation.
• Prototype development, machining, fabrication, and assembly.
• Sensors, data-acquisition, signal conditioning, control systems, or experimental automation.
• Pressure vessels, sealing systems, high-pressure fluid systems, and mechanical testing fixtures.

To Apply

Applications must be made online at . South Dakota Mines is committed to recruiting and retaining a talented workforce and offers an excellent comprehensive benefits package for employees, spouses and dependents; retirement plans; paid holidays; and a generous vacation and sick day allowance. Human Resources can provide accommodation to the online application process and may be reached at  or hr. Review of applications will begin August 28, 2026.

Employment is contingent upon completion of a satisfactory background investigation. Please attach a cover letter describing relevant research experience, technical qualifications, and interest; a current curriculum vitae; one to three selected publications or technical work samples; and a list of three professional references (include name and email address for each reference).