Post-Doctoral Associate

We are seeking an individual to fill a postdoctoral research position in the Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geo- Engineering to work on the development of semi-analytical solutions for hydraulic fracture propagating near a free-surface, including the effects of gravity-driven flow.

The successful candidate should have a PhD in civil engineering, geo-engineering, geophysics, or a related field. The candidate must have a strong background in elasticity, fracture mechanics, and fluid mechanics. Knowledge of poromechanics is preferred but not required. Also of importance are communication skills and being able to work with the senior investigator. In addition, the postdoc will be required to: (1) attend and participate in biweekly meetings; (2) generate results in a timely manner; (3) write quarterly reports and present seminars; and (4) prepare manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed scientific journals.

• 70% - Developing solutions and implementing algorithms for the problem of a hydraulic fracture propagating near a free-surface, including the effects of gravity-driven flow
• 30% - Writing reports and manuscripts; presenting results

The position is available on September 1, 2026 and the end date is August 31, 2027.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in civil engineering, geo-engineering, geophysics, computational mechanics or a related field
• Publication record in fluid-driven fracture mechanics
• Expertise in analytical or computational modeling and in implementing algorithms in Mathematica
• An ability to work independently

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with poromechanics

Pay Range: $62,232 per year; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Please visit the Benefits for Postdoctoral Candidates website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.