Funded PhD Openings in Coastal & Offshore Geotechnics at Louisiana State University

The Coastal & Offshore Geotechnics lab at Louisiana State University, led by Assistant Professor Amin Rafiei, is seeking 1–2 funded PhD students to join starting in Summer or Fall 2026. The research group is part of the Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering and focuses on cutting-edge topics in geotechnical engineering, including coastal and offshore geohazard assessment (such as landslides, liquefaction, and scour) using AI-enhanced probabilistic tools. Additional research areas include cyclic foundation design for energy infrastructures and coastal defenses, as well as cyclic triaxial testing of partially saturated sediments. Applicants should have a strong background in civil or environmental engineering or a closely related field. The lab offers a collaborative environment with opportunities to work on interdisciplinary projects that integrate advanced computational methods and experimental techniques. The position is funded, though specific details about the funding package are not provided in the announcement. To apply, candidates should email their CV and unofficial transcripts directly to Dr. Amin Rafiei at [email protected]. The application deadlines are February 1, 2026 for a Summer start and May 1, 2026 for a Fall start. Interested students are encouraged to reach out early to discuss their fit and research interests. For more information about the lab and Dr. Rafiei's research, visit amin-rafiei.com or connect via LinkedIn .