Iowa State University
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Postdoctoral Research Associate – Acoustic emission monitoring in analog models Iowa State University in United States
Degree Level
Postdoc
Field of study
Geology
Funding
Available
Deadline
Nov 25, 2026
Country
United States
University
Iowa State University
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About this position
Project focus: This postdoctoral research position centers on acoustic emission monitoring of multiphase deformation experiments, with an emphasis on tracking brittle clasts embedded in a fluid as they fail during deformation.
The successful candidate will develop an acoustic monitoring system for an existing ring shear apparatus and use it to observe failure processes in space and time within a semi-brittle material. The work is designed to connect local deformation mechanisms with bulk deformation at larger scales, with results that may help improve the treatment of semi-brittle materials in numerical models and large-scale simulation applications.
Research environment: The position is housed in the Department of Earth, Atmosphere, and Climate in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Iowa State University. The department has strengths across climate and paleoclimate, microscale and mesoscale meteorology, hydrology, solid-earth processes, geochemistry, and geoscience education, and it supports research with state-of-the-art laboratories in stable isotope geochemistry, analogue tectonic modeling, and biogeochemistry.
The project is a collaboration between Iowa State University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and the role is intended for a researcher who can work independently while contributing effectively across disciplines and institutions. The university also offers substantial computing and research infrastructure that supports data-intensive and interdisciplinary work.
The appointment is full-time and initially for one year, with the possibility of renewal for a second year.
Funding details
Available
What's required
PhD in geosciences, physics, engineering, or a related field is required. Applicants should have experience with acoustic emission, ultrasonic, or seismic monitoring and data processing, as well as experience developing experimental setups. Preferred qualifications include experience with analog modelling and background in geophysics or structural geology. Strong oral and written communication skills are required, and the candidate must be able to work independently and collaborate effectively across disciplines and institutions.
How to apply
Apply through the Iowa State University Workday application page and complete the Employment Application. Prepare to upload a CV, a cover letter, and one peer-reviewed publication authored by you.
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.