Grigorios Lavrentiadis

The University at Buffalo's AEGIS-R (Analytics for Earthquake and Geohazard InfraStructure Resilience) lab, led by Assistant Professor Grigorios Lavrentiadis, is recruiting two fully funded PhD students for Fall 2026. The available positions focus on cutting-edge research in non-ergodic ground-motion modeling and near-surface fault-rupture modeling. Students will engage in next-generation statistical and machine-learning frameworks, high-performance computing, and advanced numerical simulations for seismic hazard assessment and infrastructure resilience. The non-ergodic ground-motion modeling position emphasizes developing data-driven models for seismic hazard analysis, leveraging computational methods to improve model performance and interpretability. The fault-rupture modeling position centers on surface fault rupture mechanics, remote sensing, and soil–fault–structure interaction, integrating physics-informed machine learning and large-scale experiments. Both positions offer interdisciplinary research opportunities at the intersection of earthquake engineering, geophysics, geology, and applied mathematics. Successful candidates will work under the supervision of Dr. Grigorios Lavrentiadis and collaborate with experts in geotechnical engineering, seismology, and geology. Applicants should possess strong communication, analytical, and statistical skills, with experience in programming (Python, Julia, MATLAB), machine learning, data science, or uncertainty quantification. A background in earthquake engineering, geophysics, applied mathematics, or related fields is required. The positions are fully funded, covering tuition and stipend. To apply, candidates must submit a CV, academic transcripts, a concise statement of research interests, and reference letters via the provided application form. The anticipated start date is Fall 2026, and the application deadline is December 28, 2025. For more information, visit the University at Buffalo and the Department of Civil, Structural, and Environmental Engineering websites.