Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Computational Mineral Physics

The Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Scientist position in Computational Mineral Physics.

The position is associated with the project “Modeling Earth from Atomic to Global Scale (MINERALS),” funded by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation. A primary goal of the MINERALS project is to develop a mineral properties database for geophysical modeling, particularly for the interpretation of seismic tomography models and their geodynamic implications.

The successful candidate will conduct computational simulations of minerals under extreme pressure and temperature conditions and will work within a multidisciplinary team of mineral physicists, seismologists, and geodynamicists. The research will advance quantitative links between atomic-scale mineral behavior and the large-scale structure of the Earth.

Applicants should have recently completed, or be nearing completion of, a PhD in mineral physics, materials science, computational physics, geophysics, or a related field. Candidates should have experience in first-principles (ab initio) simulations, computational materials science, mineral physics, or related areas. Experience with density functional theory simulations, high-performance computing, or computational modeling of materials is desirable.

The initial appointment will be for one year, with continuation contingent on funding and performance. The target start date is October 1, 2026, with some flexibility. The salary is USD $72,116 per year, and Columbia University benefits accompany this Officer of Research appointment.

The search will remain open until the position is filled.

Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran.