Job Details

Postdoctoral Associate

Position Number: 6788680
Location: Boulder, CO
Position Type: Science - Geology, Earth Sciences & Oceanography

Postdoctoral Associate

Requisition Number: 69096
Location: Boulder Colorado
Employment Type: Research Faculty
Schedule: Full Time
Posting Close Date: 16-Dec-2025
Date Posted:

Job Summary

The Jacobsen and Clark research groups at the University of Colorado Boulder invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in planetary materials in extreme environments, to start in early 2026 or as soon as possible.
The position involves designing, fabricating and conducting high pressure and temperature experiments to measure the physical, chemical, and transport properties of Earth materials with application to planetary, materials, and HED science.
The position is offered for one year in the first instance, with the possibility of extension subject to satisfactory performance and funding availability. CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Who We Are

The University of Colorado at Boulder is ideally suited to the study of geological sciences. At the junction of the high plains and the Rocky Mountains, the Boulder area represents a natural outdoor laboratory where you can study geological features of all ages in diverse settings, and observe earth processes firsthand. Fieldwork in the Rocky Mountain region is an essential part of instruction and research.
The department considers the diverse opportunities for field studies a particular strength of its undergraduate programs. In addition, the department has research laboratories for studying rock and mineral deformation, soils, sedimentation, geo-microbial processes, petrology, and mineralogy.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

Independently carry out GHz-frequency ultrasonic interferometry, 1atm gas mixing, and multianvil experiments including machining parts for experiments to investigate planetary materials at extreme conditions.
Process dynamic compression (ramp and shock-ramp) experimental data.
Assist in the day-to-day running of the lab.
Mentor junior lab members.
Assist in the preparation of manuscripts for publication in scientific journals.

What We Can Offer

$60,000-$65,000 for one year beginning 1/1/2026

Benefits

At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County's largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.

Be Statements

Be creative. Be impactful. Be Boulder.

What We Require

A Ph.D. in Geological Sciences
Experience at DOE laboratory facilities
Experience independently running GHz-frequency ultrasonic interferometry
Practical experience with processing VISAR and PDV data
Machine shop training
Experience with building multianvil experiments

Special Instructions

To apply, please submit the following materials:

Resume/CV
Cover Letter
Reference Letter(s) (Not Confidential)
Optional: Transcripts / Proof of Degree

For consideration, please apply by December 16, 2025.
Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, please apply through CU Boulder Jobs.
In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

To apply, visit https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/JobDetail/Postdoctoral-Associate/69096