Assistant Research Scientist in Structural Engineering

Position overview

Position title:

Assistant Research Scientist

Salary range: A reasonable salary range estimate for this position is $124,200-$137,100. The posted UC academic salary scales set the minimum pay determined by rank and/or step  the following table for the salary scale for this position: https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..pdf

Open date:
January 22, 2026

Most recent review date:
Friday, Feb 6, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time). Applications received after this date will be reviewed by the search committee if the position has not yet been filled.

Final date:
Saturday, Feb 28, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time). Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.

The Department of Structural Engineering,  at the University of California San Diego, is conducting an open search for an Assistant Research Scientist,  At UC San Diego, Assistant Research Scientists are non-tenured, extramurally funded, academic researchers who are expected to engage in creative research and publications under a Faculty member's supervision to support the Department’s experimental and externally funded research activities.

The selected candidate will contribute to the development and execution of research programs in structural and concrete mechanics, with a strong emphasis on the seismic behavior of concrete structures and infrastructure systems. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated expertise in advanced concrete materials, including sustainable and recycled civil engineering materials such as tire rubber shreds, and innovative reinforcement technologies. Particular emphasis is placed on the use of Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) reinforcing bars in seismic applications, where an integrated experimental and numerical research program is envisaged.

The position requires strong analytical and experimental capabilities, including experience with laboratory testing of reinforced concrete components, interpretation of cyclic and dynamic response, and development of numerical models to support and complement experimental observations. A recommended, but not mandatory, understanding of prestressed structural systems for gravity and seismic applications is desirable. The Assistant Research Scientist is expected to support proposal development, contribute to the execution of funded research projects, prepare technical reports and journal publications, and participate in dissemination activities at conferences and workshops.

The role requires effective collaboration with faculty, graduate students, and external research and industry partners within a team‑based research environment.

Appointments and duration vary depending on the length of the research project and availability of funding.

This academic series is represented by the United Auto Workers of America (UAW) and information about the collective bargaining agreement is available on the UCOP website: .html

Basic qualifications (required at time of application):
Candidates must hold a PhD in civil Engineering.

Additional qualifications (required at time of start):
Strong analytical and experimental capabilities, including experience with laboratory testing of reinforced concrete components, interpretation of cyclic and dynamic response, and development of numerical models to support and complement experimental observations.

Preferred qualifications
: A recommended, but not mandatory, understanding of prestressed structural systems for gravity and seismic applications is desirable.

Document requirements

• Curriculum Vitae – Your most recently updated C.V.
• Cover Letter (Optional)
• Statement of Research (Optional)
• Statement of Teaching (Optional)

Reference requirements

• 3-5 letters of reference required

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