Post-Doctoral Associate

About the Job

One Postdoctoral Research Associate position is available in the Department of Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics (AEM) at the University of Minnesota to work in the research group led by Prof. Ryan S. Elliott. The postdoctoral associate will contribute to research focused on developing a mechanics-based understanding of architected materials, such as Triply-Periodic-Minimal-Surface (TPMS) designs, with performance advantages for blast mitigation/protection applications. The associate will also have teaching responsibilities in the AEM department.

The project aims to advance predictive modeling frameworks for structural architected materials that exhibit complex instability and bifurcation phenomena. The research will involve close integration of analytical and computational methods. The work will be conducted in a collaborative environment, with interactions and collaborations with researchers at Brown University and Vanderbilt University.

The anticipated start date for this position is June 1, 2026, with flexibility. The initial appointment will be for one year, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and availability of funding. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Duties / Responsibilities

The successful candidate will be expected to play a leading role in the research activities of the project. Primary duties include:

• Conducting independent and collaborative research in characterization and design of architected structural materials.
• Implementing and validating material/structural models using computational tools (e.g., numerical solvers, finite element frameworks, or custom research codes).
• Leading the preparation of peer-reviewed journal publications in high-impact mechanics and materials journals.
• Mentoring Ph.D. students and undergraduate researchers in the group, including guidance on research methods, technical writing, and professional development.
• Participating in collaborative research efforts with internal and external partners.
• Teaching undergraduate course(s) in mechanics.

Additional (optional) responsibilities may include:

• Contributing to the development of research proposals and fellowship applications.
• Assisting with dissemination of research outcomes through conferences, workshops, and seminars.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Theoretical and Applied Mechanics, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Civil Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, or a closely related field (e.g., Mathematics).
• Strong background in continuum mechanics and bifurcation theory.
• Demonstrated experience with finite element methods, including model development, implementation, and validation.
• Proficiency in scientific programming, with experience in one or more languages such as Python, MATLAB, C++ and/or FORTRAN.
• Ability to conduct independent research and collaborate effectively within an interdisciplinary research environment.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, with demonstrated experience to lead peer-reviewed journal publications.
• Demonstrated ability for classroom teaching in undergraduate STEM courses.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with numerical branch-following (continuation) methods.
• Knowledge of solid-to-solid phase transformations such as Martensitic Transformations and/or Reconstructive Transformations.
• Demonstrated ability or interest in mentoring graduate and undergraduate students.

About the Department

The AEM department has vibrant and active research programs in all areas of aerospace engineering and mechanics, including theoretical and computational solid mechanics, fluid dynamics, hypersonics, aerospace systems, and aerospace structures and materials. The department is in the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Minnesota, which is a world-class research university with outstanding resources and programs in engineering and science, health sciences, social sciences and liberal arts. The AEM department has close ties with on-campus multidisciplinary centers, and convenient access to outstanding shared experimental and computational facilities, such as the Gemini-Huntley Robotics Research Laboratory of the Minnesota Robotics Institute , the Minnesota Nano Center , the Characterization Facility, the Center for Magnetic Resonance Research , and the Minnesota Supercomputing Institute . More information about the department is available at https://cse.umn.edu/aem .

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $62,232 ; 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

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

How To Apply

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

This position will remain open until filled.

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