Post Doctoral Scholar

Job Title
Post Doctoral Scholar


Requisition Number
DU13842


Department Name
40520:KY Geological Survey


Work Location
Lexington, KY


Salary Range
$50,000-55,000/year


Type of Position
Student


Position Time Status
Full-Time


Required Education

Must have Ph.D. in an appropriate subject area by Jan 6, 2025



Required Related Experience

Seismic data processing



Required License/Registration/Certification

Driver’s license.



Physical Requirements

Ability to lift 50 lbs. Sitting or standing for long periods of time.



Shift

Monday – Friday 8:00am-5:00pm



Job Summary

The Kentucky Geological Survey at the University of Kentucky (UK), in cooperation with the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences has an opening for an innovative postdoctoral scholar in seismology.

This research position will work primarily in the acquisition, processing, and interpretation of recordings of earthquakes, and other natural and manmade energy sources. Fieldwork is required for the position; experience with installing and operating geophysical instrumentations, particularly broadband seismometers, is a plus. The post-doctoral scholar will support ongoing research in environmental seismology, including detections of extreme-weather events and subsurface changes, in the seismic zones that affect Kentucky, or their global analogs, and with near-surface imaging for neo-tectonic investigations and other site-specific characterizations. The scholar will have the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse team of experts and build an independent research program in seismology, with research activities leading to scholarly peer-reviewed publications. Opportunities exist for the selected applicant to mentor students and to develop learning opportunities (courses, workshops, etc.) for the UK earth science community. The position includes support for research-related travel and conference attendance.

UK is located in Lexington, a vibrant city of 300,000+ people in the heart of the scenic Bluegrass region. Lexington and UK offer excellent cultural, educational, and recreational opportunities, as well as easy access to Louisville and Cincinnati.

This is a limited term appointment for one year with the possibility of renewal for one or more additional years, contingent upon performance and availability of funds. We will begin reviewing applications starting August 27, 2025, and continue until the position is filled. Please include a current curriculum vitae along with a cover letter that details your experience related to the required items listed above.

A complete application includes the uploading of a list of three references. Please upload those in PDF format to the Applicant Document section as Specific Request 1.



Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Knowledge: Seismology, geophysics, time-series analysis, and appropriate mathematical background
Skills: Seismic station installation and operation, computer coding, seismic data processing, strong written and oral communication, experience with manuscript development, experience with proposal development is a strong plus.
Ability: Travel without restrictions



Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?
No


Preferred Education/Experience

Ph.D. in Seismology or Geophysics



Deadline to Apply
09/10/2025


Our University Community

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.