Position Description
We are seeking a postdoctoral associate position in laboratory rock mechanics for reservoir characterization during hydrofracture and hydro-shear of fracture networks across the brittle-ductile transition.
As a part of a recently funded Science Foundations for the Energy Earthshots grant from the DOE’s Office of Science, we seek a postdoctoral researcher to work on laboratory-scale experiments of fracture network generation and permeability control of geothermal energy and carbon storage subsurface reservoirs, using transparent analog materials. Experiments will include high-speed visual and acoustic monitoring to serve as training data for a neural network based, thermodynamically-constrained constitutive model. Lab work will be based at Cornell University, but the project will include close collaboration with colleagues at Penn State and MIT, as well as a machine learning-focused geothermal start-up (Strabo Analytics). The entire project team will include graduate students, postdocs, research associates, and senior personnel across these institutions, including a comprehensive mentoring plan with opportunities for career development. Applicants with laboratory experience and interests in geothermal energy, rock fracture, acoustic emissions, and/or machine learning are highly encouraged to apply.
The successful applicant will:
• Design and lead laboratory experiments, including acoustic and high-speed camera data acquisition and analysis.
• Communicate results through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.
• Coordinate with modeling and machine learning elements of the project.
• Have completed a PhD in Geophysics/Earth Science, Engineering, Physics, Acoustics or related field by start date.
The position will be based in the Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Department at Cornell University, using laboratory facilities in the shared Bovay Laboratory Complex. Funding has been secured for 2+ years with potential for extension. The position can start as soon as July 2024, but by January 2025 at the latest. Please email Prof. Seth Saltiel at ssaltiel@cornell.edu with any questions or to express your interest in the position.
Cornell Postdoctoral Pay Range:
$56,484.00 - $80,000.00
The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:
• Prior relevant work or industry experience.
• Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position.
• Academic Discipline (faculty pay ranges reflects 9-month annual salary)
• Unique applicable skills.
EEO Statement:
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Cornell University embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff to all identities and backgrounds. We encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.
Employment Assistance:
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EEO Statement:
Cornell welcomes students, faculty, and staff with diverse backgrounds from across the globe to pursue world-class education and career opportunities, to further the founding principle of “... any person ... any study.” No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally protected status or subjected to prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex, pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual’s genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Cornell University embraces diversity in its workforce and seeks job candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We hire based on merit, and encourage people from historically underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply. Consistent with federal law, Cornell engages in affirmative action in employment for qualified protected veterans as defined in the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRRA) and qualified individuals with disabilities under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.
Pay Ranges:
The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:
- Prior relevant work or industry experience.
- Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position.
- Academic Discipline (faculty pay ranges reflects 9-month annual salary)
- Unique applicable skills.