Postdoc: Investigating Bridge Load Rating for Emergency Vehicles

Pertinent Information
Specialized Lab: Kinetic Structures Laboratory
Department: Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering & Earth Sciences (www.ceees.nd.edu)
Institution: University of Notre Dame
Location: Notre Dame, IN
Application Deadline: Open until filled
Type: Full-time
Position Start Date: August 2026
Proposed Minimum Salary: $65,000

Job Description
Opening for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work with Dr. Ashley Thrall in the Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering & Earth Sciences at the University of Notre Dame. The successful candidate will perform cutting-edge research investigating the impact of new emergency vehicles on load rating of bridges in Indiana. Specifically, the Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act has resulted in emergency vehicle loads that must be considered for load rating of bridges. Due to exemptions in Indiana code, this requirement applies to interstate and non-interstate bridges, leading to the posting of 1,649 bridges, mostly maintained by local agencies. The focus will be on understanding the impact on locally maintained bridges and providing guidance on compliance.

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will join a vibrant team of scholars in the Kinetic Structures Laboratory. This research is funded by the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) and will include significant interaction with INDOT staff, providing unique opportunities for professional development. Funding is available to present at technical conferences. The position is for 12 months.

Required Qualifications
Ph.D. in structural engineering.

Preferred Qualifications
Experience in bridge engineering, finite element analysis.

Application Process
Applications will be reviewed immediately until the position is filled. Interested candidates should email a cover letter, CV, and contact information for three references to Dr. Ashley Thrall (athrall@nd.edu).