Postdoctoral Associate in Computational/Theoretical Materials Science

Postdoctoral Associate in Computational/Theoretical Materials Science Recruitment/Posting Title: Postdoctoral Associate in Computational/Theoretical Materials Science Department: Materials Science & Engineering Salary Details: Minimum $63,968 Offer Information: The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate’s qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university’s broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent. Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include: Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable) Life insurance coverage Employee discount programs Posting Summary The microMechanics of Deformation (mMOD) group at Rutgers University is seeking a postdoctoral researcher with interest and background in crystalline interfaces (grain and phase boundaries), dislocation theory, molecular dynamics simulations, and ductile fracture of metals. The research to be performed under this up-to 2-year position is focused on (1) understanding the nature of line defect (dislocation and disconnection) structures in crystalline interfaces and their connection to interface migration and (2) the interactions of dislocations with crack tips in metals and how they affect crack propagation. Under this position, the major contributions to this effort will be: (1) theoretical and simulation analysis of grain and phase boundary defect structures, (2) assessment of mechanisms of interface migration, (3) theoretical and simulation analysis of dislocation-crack interactions, and (4) assessment of mechanisms of crack growth. Both molecular dynamics and discrete dislocation dynamics simulations will be employed, with conjunction with physics-informed neural networks (trained and implemented in collaboration with other project team members). In addition to performing research, the postdoc will provide leadership and mentorship within the PI’s research group, engage with potential industrial/external partners, and support research ideation and proposal development in collaboration with the PI. 80 % 1. Execution of research tasks, including: algorithm and code development, theoretical analysis, development and execution of simulations using high-performance computing, analysis of simulation results, manuscript preparation, and presentation of results at technical conferences and workshops. 10 % 2. Leadership and mentorship within the research group, including: providing support and guidance to undergraduate and graduate students, assisting with troubleshooting of simulations and analysis, and brainstorming research ideas and concepts with other group members. 10 % 3. Support of research ideation, including: surveying and analyzing scientific literature, performing preliminary studies and evaluations of research ideas, and support in white paper and proposal preparation. Position Status: Full Time Posting Number: 26FA0926 Posting Open Date: 10/19/2026 Posting Close Date: 12/01/2026 Qualifications Minimum Education and Experience: PhD in Materials Science and Engineering or related fields. Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: A Doctorate of Philosophy in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Physics, or a related field is required. Knowledge of the mechanical behavior of materials and some form of materials modeling (e.g., density functional theory, molecular dynamics, discrete dislocation dynamics, mesoscale methods, finite element methods) is required. Preferred Qualifications: Materials Science and Engineering, Chemistry, or Geochemistry. Experience with high-performance computing, dislocation theory, theory of crystalline interfaces, and fracture mechanics is preferred. All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings. Immunization Requirements Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate’s offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. 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