Postdoctoral Scholar – Borehole Geophysics, Paros Geohazards Center

(UW) is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to support the Center's effort to design, install, and conduct scientific research via a borehole observatory for the Cascadia Subduction Zone under the supervision of Professor Harold Tobin in the Department of Earth and Space Sciences. The person in this position will be joining a vibrant and rapidly growing team of researchers spanning three departments at UW (Earth and Space Sciences, Oceanography, and Atmospheric and Climate Science) in the College of the Environment, located at our main campus in Seattle, Washington. We are seeking a full-time (100% FTE) postdoctoral scholar. This position will be an initial 12 month appointment with a possible extension. Key responsibilities: The project will entail work with a planned pair of boreholes designed to carry out seismologic, geodetic, and other geophysical measurements relevant to strain accumulation and release in a coastal setting on the Olympic Peninsula, Washington The research will address fundamental questions of the mechanics of the Cascadia subduction zone and surrounding crust, as well as the development of cutting-edge sensor technologies in partnership with other researchers. The intended span of the project will extend across the design, installation, and data collection phases of the observatory system. The UW Paros Geohazards Center (PGC) mission to develop and exploit novel sensing technologies for monitoring geohazards and investigate those hazards using geophysical approaches. The Center's initial research is organized around six flagship initiatives that address a broad range of geohazards through the development and application of new observational approaches. These initiatives include real-time seafloor sensing for the Cascadia Subduction Zone, integrated sensing of mountain and volcanic geohazards, a cryospheric sensor test bed, wind and waves in Arctic sea ice, and cross-initiative applications of infrasound sensing, in addition to the geophysical borehole testing center and observatory. Postdoctoral scholars are represented by UAW 4121 and are subject to the collective bargaining agreement, unless agreed exclusion criteria apply. For more information, please visit the University of Washington Labor Relations website at https://hr.uw.edu/labor. Compensation: This is a full-time appointment (100% FTE). The base minimum salary for this position will be $6,681 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications, or as mandated by a U.S. Department of Labor prevailing wage determination. The position is available from November 1, 2026, negotiable. Employee benefits will be provided. The position initially runs for one year subject to renewal after 12 months based on satisfactory progress. Required Qualifications: University of Washington postdoctoral scholar appointments are for a temporary, defined period not to exceed five years/60 months, including any previous postdoctoral experience. Postdoctoral scholars are engaged in full-time, mentored advanced training to enhance professional skills and research independence. Given the close mentoring relationship necessitated by the nature of postdoctoral scholar appointments; access to the full university community to support individual development; and, if applicable, visa sponsorship requirements, postdoctoral scholars must be physically present at their place of work on University property to fulfill their appointment duties Minimum Qualifications: At the time of appointment, candidates must have a Ph.D. in an applicable geophysical field or a relevant civil or mechanical engineering field. The successful candidate will have experience at the PhD level with geophysical sensors and time-series measurements and be conversant with technologies used in field geophysical stations and observatories The successful candidate will furthermore have a strong scientific background, demonstrated ability to conduct independent research, excellent organizational and communication skills, and the ability to independently advance research activities, coordinate collaborations, and identify ways to contribute to the Center's goal Preferred Qualifications: The ideal candidate would also be familiar with borehole-based observatory science as applied in geodesy and/or seismology, or related fields. Visa Sponsorship: This recruitment is open to applicants who will require employer sponsorship for an H-1B or E-3 visa. Application Instructions To apply, candidates should submit materials via Interfolio, comprising: Statement of interest describing their relevant skills, experience and interests (maximum of 2 pages) Curriculum-vitae including a list of publications and links to any open code repositories Names and contact information for three references. PDF files are preferred. Consideration of applications will begin immediately and remain open until the position is filled. Preference will be given to applications received by October 10, 2026 Questions about this opportunity can be directed to Professor Harold Tobin (htobin@uw.edu). Equal Opportunity The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.