South Dakota Mines
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Postdoctoral Researcher in Experimental Rock Mechanics and Critical Minerals Sensing South Dakota Mines in United States
Degree Level
Postdoc
Field of study
Geology
Funding
Full funding availableDeadline
Aug 28, 2026
Country
United States
University
South Dakota Mines
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About this position
South Dakota Mines is advertising a Postdoctoral Researcher position in the Department of Geology and Geological Engineering in Rapid City, United States. The role supports a newly funded U.S. Department of Energy project focused on advanced sensing and characterization for critical minerals.
The postdoc will lead and support research in experimental rock mechanics, block-scale laboratory testing, and the mechanical development of sensing tool prototypes. The work is highly interdisciplinary and includes designing and preparing synthetic rock blocks, running controlled laboratory experiments under relevant subsurface conditions, and helping with the design, fabrication, assembly, and integration of downhole tools and experimental systems.
Research activities also include building experimental fixtures, pressure chambers, tool housings, and other mechanical components; integrating sensors, instrumentation, data acquisition, and control systems; and contributing to technical reports, project meetings, journal papers, and conference presentations. The position is full-time and benefited, with an advertised salary of $58,000 depending on education and experience.
Eligibility highlights: applicants must have a Ph.D. in geological engineering, petroleum engineering, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, geomechanics, rock mechanics, or a closely related field by the start date. Strong experience in experimental rock mechanics, geomechanics, or rock-physics testing is required, along with hands-on laboratory experiment design and system development skills. Preferred experience includes synthetic rocks or geomaterials, SolidWorks/AutoCAD, downhole tools, prototype fabrication, sensors, data acquisition, automation, and high-pressure testing systems.
How to apply: submit the application online through the South Dakota Board of Regents portal. Required materials include a cover letter, current CV, one to three selected publications or technical work samples, and a reference list with three professional references. Review of applications begins on 2026-08-28.
Funding details
Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.
How to apply
Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.
More information can be found here
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