Post-Doc Research Associate

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities and is among is the top ten research universities in the nation for federal research expenditures as well as for federally funded social and behavioral sciences research and development.

Here at Carolina, our highly skilled postdocs play a vital role in our research enterprise and towards our overall commitment to research excellence. Across many disciplines, postdocs contribute to the intellectual vitality of the University. They provide innovative ideas and perspectives, foster a stimulating research environment and advance knowledge within their fields. Postdocs are crucial members of our scientific research workforce, contributors to our research outputs and an important reason why Carolina is one of the leading public research institutions in the country.

UNC-Chapel Hill offers postdocs comprehensive medical and vision coverage, paid leave, and benefits and services that support professional development and a healthy work/life balance. Chapel Hill regularly ranks as one of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, a reputation guided by the diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

Review of applications will occur after December 1st 2025. This position is for a 2-year Postdoc. $2,000 in moving expenses will also be covered for qualified candidate (Distance from "old location" to "newer location" for relocation must be a distance of 50 miles or more). If interested, please contact gjepson@unc.edu with any questions. Full applications should include your CV, a 1-2 page cover letter with your qualifications for this position and overview of past research experiences, a list of 2-3 references, and a recent publication (if desired).

The Department of Earth, Marine and Environmental Sciences ( EMES) and the Institute of Marine Sciences at UNC-CH advances understanding of the earth and ocean processes that govern our planet, shape diverse ecosystems, sustain life, and drive environmental change. We promote exploration and discovery of the natural world by engaging students in research-based learning at all levels. Our graduates are equipped with the strong science foundation, critical thinking skills, and interdisciplinary perspectives required to tackle current and future environmental and resource challenges. We encourage engaged service that translates knowledge for the public good. We support a welcoming and inclusive environment, foster diverse identities and perspectives, and encourage collaboration with all segments of society.

The Thermochronology Research Unearthing Structure and Tectonics (ThRUST) research group at the University of North Carolina are seeking a 2-year postdoc in tectonics and thermochronology. Fission-track thermochronology is an essential tool in constraining time-temperature paths of sedimentary rocks in basins and rocks in orogenic systems. This project will investigate the controls of trace and major element geochemistry on the annealing kinetics of apatite, monazite, and zircon. Our approach will blend a mixture of laboratory characterization and field-based quantification. Funding is supported by an American Chemical Society grant on the impact of apatite geochemistry on thermochronologic ages.

PhD related to the area of expertise by the start date.

Demonstrated experience in 2 or more of the following disciplines: Tectonic geomorphology, field-based sedimentology/stratigraphy, thermochronology, geochronology, geochemistry. Collaborative attitude and willingness to contribute to the broader research group. Willingness and ability to conduct field work in the North American Cordillera, East Africa, or Central Asia.

Publication record in peer-reviewed journals. Past experience in thermochronology. Experience in ArcGIS, QGIS, and/or TopoToolbox and a coding language.

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For information on UNC Postdoctoral Benefits and Services click here

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the University's Office of Postdoctoral Affairs at (919) 962-9982 or send an email to opahr@unc.edu.

Please note: The Office of Postdoctoral Affairs will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.