Position Summary
The Department of Geology and Geological Engineering at South Dakota Mines is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to support a newly funded U.S. Department of Energy project focused on advanced sensing and characterization for critical minerals. The postdoctoral
researcher will primarily lead and support research in experimental rock mechanics, block-scale laboratory testing, and mechanical development of sensing tool prototypes. The position will involve close collaboration with an interdisciplinary team. This is a full-time, benefited position.
Primary Responsibilities
The successful candidate will contribute to the following activities:
- Design, prepare, and characterize synthetic rock blocks for controlled laboratory experiments.
- Develop and conduct block-scale experiments under relevant subsurface conditions.
- Assist with the mechanical design, fabrication, assembly, and integration of downhole tools.
- Design experimental fixtures, pressure chambers, tool housings, and other mechanical components.
- Install and integrate sensors, instrumentation, data-acquisition, and experimental control components.
- Contribute to technical reports, project meetings, journal publications, and conference presentations.
Required Qualifications
- A Ph.D. in geological engineering, petroleum engineering, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, geomechanics, rock mechanics, or a closely related field by the position start date.
- Strong background in experimental rock mechanics, geomechanics, or rock-physics testing.
- Demonstrated hands-on experience in laboratory experiment design, equipment operation, or experimental system development.
- Ability to independently plan, conduct, troubleshoot, and document laboratory experiments.
- Strong written and oral communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and effectively within a multidisciplinary research team.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in one or more of the following areas is highly desirable:
- Preparation, casting, machining, or characterization of synthetic rocks, geomaterials, or ore analogs.
- Mechanical design using SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar software.
- Downhole tools, wireline logging systems, drilling tools, or subsurface instrumentation.
- Prototype development, machining, fabrication, and assembly.
- Sensors, data-acquisition, signal conditioning, control systems, or experimental automation.
- Pressure vessels, sealing systems, high-pressure fluid systems, and mechanical testing fixtures.
To Apply:
Applications must be made online at
https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu. South Dakota Mines is committed to recruiting and retaining a talented workforce and offers an
excellent comprehensive benefits package for employees, spouses and dependents; retirement plans; paid holidays; and a generous vacation and sick day allowance. Human Resources can provide accommodation to the online application process and may be reached at (605) 394-1203 or
[email protected]. Review of applications will begin August 28, 2026. Employment is contingent upon completion of a satisfactory background investigation.
Please attach a cover letter describing relevant research experience, technical qualifications, and interest; a current curriculum vitae; one to three selected publications or technical work samples; and a list of three professional references (include name and email address for each reference).
