Post-doctoral Fellowship (PDF) in Resilient and Sustainable Infrastructures

Competition 1628

Location:  University of Alberta, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, StructuresGroup

Starting Date:  Jan 2025

Term Length: 12 months (possibility of extension upon availability of funding and satisfactory performance)

This position offers a benefits package found at Postdoctoral Fellows Benefits.

We are recruiting a Post-doctoral Fellow (PDF) in Structural and Earthquake Engineering. The successful candidate will have a PhD in a related field, a solid research background and excellent communication skills. We are looking for someone passionate about research who can work independently and collaboratively.

Preferred qualifications include expertise in structural resiliency, seismic design, and computational mechanics, with additional experience in pipeline engineering being an advantage.

Key responsibilities include conducting advanced research, collaborating with our team, developing analytical and numerical models, and maintaining strong communication with external partners. This position is initially for one year, with the possibility of extension. The salary will be competitive and based on the applicant's qualifications.

Position Summary

The PDF in Structural and Earthquake Engineering will undertake a range of responsibilities, including:

• Conducting research in structural resiliency, seismic design, pipeline analysis, and computational mechanics (50%).
• Developing, designing and implementing test setups, performing structural tests, and other related duties. (15%).
• Collaborating with a team of researchers and students (15%).
• Facilitating communication with external partners (10%).
• Assisting with research grant applications, contract proposals, and reports (10%).

This role offers the opportunity to contribute significantly to impactful research while working closely with a multidisciplinary team. The selected PDF will be able to publish the research results in reputable venues.

Minimum Qualifications

• Hold a PhD (or expect to obtain a PhD) in a relevant discipline such as civil engineering, mechanical engineering, or computer science/engineering; received in the last five years.
• Solid background in structural resiliency, seismic design, and computational mechanics.
• Highly motivated, well-organized, and passionate about research, with strong communication skills in English and a proven record of publications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous work experience as a structural engineer is a strong asset.
• Experience in pipeline engineering is an advantage.
• Familiarity with structural analysis software such as PERFORM 3D, SAP2000, Abaqus, or Ansys is highly valued.
• Proven expertise in OpenSees or OpenSeesPy is a bonus.
• Strong scripting and programming skills, particularly in Python, with a willingness to learn new techniques such as finite method element automation, are considered strong assets.
• Experience in developing experimental setups and conducting physical tests is beneficial.
• Proficiency in machine learning techniques, analytics, algorithms, and data visualization tools is considered a strong qualification.

How to apply

Interested candidates are encouraged to contact Dr. Nastaran Cheshmehkaboodi atcheshmeh@ualberta.ca, for further information regarding the position.

To apply, please submit the following documents:

• A cover letter.
• A detailed academic CV, including the names of at least three references (one of whom should be your PhD supervisor).
• Two recent and relevant publications related to the position.

Please note: All qualified applications will be forwarded to Dr. Hossein Daneshvar in the Faculty of Engineering, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Alberta, for a thorough evaluation.