The Opportunity
As part of Extreme Structures and Materials (XSTRM) team, the postdoctoral research scholar will participate in the materials characterization and analysis portion of novel metallic systems for next-generation protective systems. Additionally, the laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art experimental facilities and the applicant will help configured full-field diagnostics (e.g. X-ray, thermal imaging, optical imaging metrology, spectrograph etc.). Applicants should have a strong background in solid mechanics, demonstrated experience in experimental mechanics, sound academic and work references, and excellent communication skills. The ideal candidate would be capable of acting as the technical lead on this project, helping to support one or two relevant projects in the laboratory and making critical decisions that contribute to successful research contributions. Timely peer-reviewed publications based on laboratory efforts are an essential piece of job duties.

Responsibilities
Primary Responsibilities

Characterizing material systems (with a focus on metallic) under dynamic loading events leveraging Kolsky (split-Hopkinson) bar, single and two-stage light gas guns.
Configure and develop salient metrology techniques via thermal, X-ray, and/or optical imaging to gather full-field quantitative information from experiments.
Conduct data analysis, analytical analysis and write up salient results for timely program reviews and scientific publications.
Additional Responsibilities

The research group also has projects on composites, foams, and ceramic materials systems, which the candidate (depending on their background) may help support.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Education and Experience

Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering and/or related field
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Working knowledge in experimental mechanics (high strain rate/dynamic experience preferred)
Working knowledge of full-field deformation measurements, triggering and image capturing
Working knowledge of finite element methods highly encouraged
Above average PC skills, including word processing, LaTeX, presentations, and spreadsheets
Excellent written and verbal scientific communication skills with a history of good publication record
Proven self-starter good interpersonal and time management skills and ability to work in a team environment with minimal direction.
Preferred Qualifications
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Some experience or working knowledge of metal systems is preferred.
• Familiarity with inverse techniques, such as the Virtual Fields Method, is preferred.
• Many XSTRM research funds require US citizenship or permanent resident status, so candidates that meet these qualifications are preferred (but not mandatory).

About Mines & Golden, CO
Mines is consistently ranked among the top engineering colleges in the United States and ranks number one as the best public school in the state for best value colleges. Mines is located in the heart of Golden, Colorado, a western suburb of Denver. The campus location offers a small-town ambiance with close proximity to all that the Denver metropolitan area has to offer with an abundance of cultural events, museums, theaters and sporting venues. An arid climate and an average 300 days of sunshine per year make the area an ideal place to live, work and play. We seek individuals who value a diverse and inclusive community – offering different perspectives, experiences, and cultures that enrich the educational and work experience. To learn more about The Department of Mechanical Engineering visit https://mechanical.mines.edu/

Equal Opportunity
Colorado School of Mines is committed to equal opportunity for all persons. Mines does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, gender (including gender identity and gender expression), ancestry, creed, marital status, race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veterans status or current military service. Further, Mines does not retaliate against community members for filing complaints regarding or implicating any of these protected statuses.

Mines’ commitment to nondiscrimination, affirmative action, equal opportunity and equal access is reflected in the administration of its policies, procedures, programs and activities and in its efforts to achieve a diverse student body and workforce.

Through its policies, procedures and resources, Mines complies with federal law, Colorado state law, administrative regulations, executive orders and other legal requirements to prevent discrimination (including harassment or retaliation) within the Mines campus community and to address potential allegations of inequity or concerns for safety.

Pay Range
$62,000 - $70,000

Mines takes into consideration a combination of candidate’s education, training and experience as well as the position’s scope and complexity, the discretion and latitude required in the role, work location, and external market and internal value when determining a salary level for potential new employees.