Computational Fault Mechanics - Postdoctoral Researcher

About the role

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) advances science and technology to strengthen U.S. security and promote global stability across nuclear deterrence, threat preparedness, energy security, and multi-domain defense. The laboratory fosters a culture of innovation and operational excellence where expertise makes a real impact. This opening is for a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Atmospheric, Earth, and Energy Division (Physical and Life Sciences Directorate) to conduct computational research in fault mechanics, earthquake physics, and geomechanics. The role involves developing and applying numerical models to investigate fault slip, stress evolution, and coupled mechanical, hydrologic, and thermal processes in geologic materials, using high-performance computing and advanced simulation methods to improve understanding of fault-system behavior for seismic hazard, subsurface energy applications, and national security.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and apply computational models of fault mechanics and geologic deformation.
• Conduct simulations of quasi-static or quasi-dynamic rupture, fault slip, and related multi-physics processes.
• Analyze numerical simulation results alongside laboratory, field, and observational geophysical data.
• Contribute to model verification, validation, and comparison with observations.
• Use high-performance computing resources and modern scientific software practices.
• Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and external research partners.
• Publish results in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences and technical meetings.
• Pursue complementary independent research interests that support project objectives.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in geophysics, geomechanics, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, applied mathematics, computational science, or a related field.
• Experience with numerical discretization methods for partial differential equations.
• Experience in computational modeling of geomechanical systems.
• Knowledge of continuum mechanics, friction laws, and nonlinear material behavior.
• Proficiency in C/C++ programming language.
• Experience working in Linux-based high-performance computing environments.
• Record of publishing peer-reviewed research.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment.

Skills

• Knowledge of the GEOS multiphysics modeling framework or similar codes.
• Experience with mortar methods, augmented Lagrangian methods, and/or related computational contact algorithms for frictional interfaces and fault mechanics.
• Familiarity with earthquake physics, induced seismicity, geothermal energy, carbon storage, or subsurface engineering applications.
• Experience with parallel computing, scalable workflows, version control, or scientific code development.
• Experience using agentic AI tools to support scientific software development, computational workflow automation, data analysis, or research productivity.

Benefits

• Included in 2026 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
• Flexible Benefits Package
• 401(k)
• Relocation Assistance
• Education Reimbursement Program
• Flexible schedules (depending on project needs)

Pay

Pay Range: $123,048 annually. Salary placement based on competencies, education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and organizational needs.

Schedule

Flexible schedules, depending on project needs.