Post-Doctoral Fellow, Experimental Mechanics, Mechanical Engineering

The Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Colorado School of Mines invites applications for a Research Faculty position supporting externally funded research in experimental mechanics, impact physics, and architected metamaterials. The successful candidate will contribute to multidisciplinary research investigating the dynamic response of advanced material systems under extreme loading conditions through the integration of advanced experimentation, computational modeling, and optical metrology.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and analyze experimental investigations of advanced materials and architected polymer and metal metamaterials subjected to dynamic loading.
• Operate, maintain, and further develop high-rate experimental facilities, including single-stage and two-stage gas gun systems and Kolsky (split-Hopkinson) pressure bar systems for compression and tension.
• Develop and validate computational models supporting experimental investigations using finite element and hydrocode methods.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers, prepare technical reports and publications, and collaborate with external research partners and program sponsors.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline.
• Demonstrated experience conducting independent experimental research in dynamic material behavior or impact mechanics.
• Experience operating high-rate experimental systems.
• Experience with multiple optical metrology techniques such as Digital Image Correlation (2D and/or 3D), digital holography, etc.
• Experience with finite element analysis for dynamic solid mechanics problems.
• Demonstrated scientific communication skills, including technical writing and presentations.
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary research environment and mentor student researchers.

Preferred Qualifications

• Postdoctoral or equivalent industry research experience in experimental mechanics or impact physics.
• Experience supporting large federally funded collaborative research programs.
• Experience operating and developing diagnostics with both single-stage and two-stage light gas gun systems.
• Experience operating and developing Kolsky (split-Hopkinson) bar systems in both compression and tension.
• Experience with explicit finite element software (e.g., Abaqus/Explicit, LS-DYNA) and continuum dynamics modeling (e.g., CTH or similar hydrocode).
• Experience with advanced optical diagnostics including Digital Image Correlation, holographic/interferometric methods, high-speed imaging, and infrared thermography.
• Experience characterizing polymeric cellular materials, including open-cell foam systems, under dynamic loading.
• Experience developing laboratory instrumentation and experimental procedures for high-rate testing.
• Demonstrated success publishing peer-reviewed research in experimental mechanics, impact engineering, or related fields.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform laboratory-based research activities.
• Ability to lift and transport laboratory equipment and materials up to 25 pounds on an occasional basis.
• Ability to stand for extended periods while conducting experiments.

Potential Environmental Conditions/Hazards

• Laboratory environment involving high-pressure gas systems, impact testing equipment, lasers, and high-speed instrumentation.
• Exposure to noise, compressed gases, electrical equipment, and moving mechanical systems.
• Required use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to laboratory safety protocols.

Pay

$70,000 annually

Benefits

• Flexible health and dental care options
• Generous sick/vacation time: 13 paid holidays per year – including a week-long winter break for the entire campus
• Fully vested retirement plan on first day of employment, with generous employer contribution
• Tuition benefits (6 credits per year for employees, 50 percent discount for dependents)
• Free RTD Ecopass
• Access to discount programs through the State of Colorado and free tickets for Mines Athletics home games
• Access to the state-of-the-art Recreation Center (fitness classes and training, swimming pool and more) and equipment rentals through the Outdoor Rec Center
• On-campus daycare center

About Mines & Golden, CO

Colorado School of Mines is a top-ranked public university solving the grand challenges facing our society, particularly those related to the Earth, energy and the environment. Founded in 1874 with specialties in mining and metallurgy, Mines’ scope and mission have continually expanded to meet the needs of industry and society. Today, Mines is recognized for its innovation and undergraduate teaching in science, technology, engineering, and math. Mines graduates are change makers, boundary breakers, and problem solvers.

Mines faculty members are pushing their fields in new directions, including manufacturing, space resources, quantum engineering, and carbon capture. Mines is classified as a R1 “Very High Activity” research institution by Carnegie. With roughly 8,200 undergraduate and graduate students, Mines offers a close-knit campus community where employees can get involved in multiple ways.

Golden, Colorado, offers a charming historic downtown, nearby hiking trails, and close proximity to Denver and the Rocky Mountains. The area features a sunny, high-altitude climate and outstanding outdoor recreation opportunities.