Computational Fault Mechanics - Postdoctoral Researcher

LLNL • Livermore, CA

3d

About The Position

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory is hiring a Postdoctoral Researcher to conduct computational research in fault mechanics, earthquake physics, and geomechanics. The researcher will develop and apply numerical models to investigate fault slip, stress evolution, and coupled mechanical, hydrologic, and thermal processes in geologic materials. Working with a multidisciplinary team, the role uses high-performance computing and advanced simulation methods to improve understanding of fault-system behavior and its implications for seismic hazard, subsurface energy applications, and national security. The position is in the Atmospheric, Earth, and Energy Division within the Physical and Life Sciences Directorate.

This is a temporary, mentored postdoctoral training appointment, with the possibility of extension to a maximum of three years. Applicants must have received their Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate within five years of the anticipated start date. The position has no security clearance requirement, although assignments longer than 179 days cumulatively within a calendar year require Personal Identity Verification and an approved background check. Eligibility to access the Laboratory under Section 3112 of the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act is required.

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++.
• 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.
• Must have received a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate within five years of the anticipated start date.
• Must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112 of the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act.

Nice To Haves

• 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 SI (Super Intelligence, formerly referred to as Artificial Intelligence, or AI) tools to support scientific software development, computational workflow automation, data analysis, or research productivity.

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 multiphysics 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.

Benefits

• Flexible Benefits Package
• 401(k)
• Relocation Assistance
• Education Reimbursement Program
• Flexible schedules (depending on project needs)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree