Postdoctoral Fellow in Seismic Monitoring Groundwater Systems

Job Posting

Title:

Postdoctoral Fellow in Seismic Monitoring for Groundwater Systems

Hiring Department: Bureau of Economic Geology

Position Open To: All Applicants

Weekly Scheduled

Hours:

40

FLSA Status: Exempt

Earliest

Start Date:

Jan 12, 2026

Position Duration: Expected to Continue Until Jan 11, 2027

Location: PICKLE RESEARCH CAMPUS

This position is located at the J.J. Pickle Research Campus in North Austin. Duration is for 1 year, with the possibility of a 1 year extension depending on performance and project funding.

The purpose of this position is to advance sensitive groundwater seismic monitoring using telecommunication DAS fiber as the primary sensing system, complemented by broadband seismic stations, with emphasis on time‑lapse interferometry and linking seismic responses to groundwater flow and well observations.

• Research and development of seismic monitoring methods using telecommunication DAS fiber as the primary sensing system, complemented by broadband seismic stations, with emphasis on time‑lapse analysis and interferometry for groundwater systems.
• Modeling and interpretation of seismic and DAS observations using synthetic simulations and groundwater flow models, and closing the loop with monitoring‑well and hydrologic observations.
• Processing, quality control, and time‑lapse analysis of continuous seismic and DAS datasets.
• Writing and publishing research.
• Mentoring and collaboration.
• Coordination with project partners and sponsors.
• Support for field activities and instrumentation logistics.

PhD in Geophysics, Seismology, or a closely related field. Demonstrated experience with seismic interferometry (ambient‑noise and/or coda‑wave), DAS, and time‑lapse seismic monitoring. Extensive publication and presentation record. Excellent written and verbal communication skills and ability to work effectively in a collaborative research environment.

Degree must have been received within 3 years of hire

Strong background in seismic interferometry, including coda‑wave interferometry applied primarily to broadband seismic data, with experience extending interferometric concepts to DAS. Experience processing large continuous datasets using high‑performance computing environments. Familiarity with numerical or synthetic simulations and integration of seismic observations with subsurface flow or reservoir models, including closing the loop with monitoring data. Experience working in interdisciplinary teams and coordinating closely with collaborators, sponsors, or operational partners.

Prior applied research experience with DAS‑based monitoring or subsurface sensing applications is a plus.

$65,000

• May work around standard office conditions
• Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation
• Use of manual dexterity
• Climbing of stairs
• Occasional weekend, overtime, and evening work to meet deadlines
• Occasional travel intrastate, interstate, international
• Occasional fieldwork as necessary

• Resume/CV
• 3 work references with their contact information
• Letter of interest

Please make sure you meet all the required qualifications and you can perform all of the essential functions with or without a reasonable accommodation.

The retirement plan for this position is Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS), subject to the position being at least 20 hours per week and at least 135 days in length. This position has the option to elect the Optional Retirement Program (ORP) instead of TRS, subject to the position being 40 hours per week and at least 135 days in length.

A criminal history background check will be required for finalists under consideration for this position.

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status,…