SMML Post-Doctoral Associate

One Postdoctoral Research Associate position is available in the Department of Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics at the University of Minnesota to work in the Soft Materials Mechanics Laboratory, led by Prof. Kshitiz Upadhyay. The postdoctoral researcher will contribute to research focused on developing constitutive models for soft materials, with particular emphasis on thermo-visco-hyperelastic behavior, integrating continuum mechanics, scientific machine learning (SciML), and computational physics.

The project aims to advance predictive modeling frameworks for soft, rate-dependent materials under complex thermo-mechanical loading conditions. The research will involve close integration of analytical constitutive modeling, data-driven approaches, and computational implementation, with applications spanning soft biological tissues and other compliant material systems. The work will be conducted in a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary environment, with interactions and collaborations with researchers at The University of Texas at Austin and The University of Arizona.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of solid mechanics, constitutive theory, and data-driven modeling, while contributing to fundamental advances in soft material mechanics and developing transferable skills applicable to a broad range of computational mechanics problems.

The anticipated start date for this position is February 1, 2026, with some flexibility. The initial appointment will be for one year, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and availability of funding. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Interested individuals are encouraged to contact Prof. Kshitiz Upadhyay (kshitizu@umn.edu).

Duties / Responsibilities

The successful candidate will be expected to play a leading role in the research activities of the Soft Materials Mechanics Laboratory.

Primary duties (90%):

• Conducting independent and collaborative research in constitutive modeling, SciML, and computational mechanics of soft materials.
• Developing and analyzing constitutive models (e.g., hyperelastic, viscoelastic, and damage-informed formulations) under complex thermo-mechanical loading.
• Implementing and validating models using computational tools (e.g., numerical solvers, finite element frameworks, or custom research codes).
• Leading the preparation of peer-reviewed journal publications in high-impact mechanics and materials journals.
• Mentoring Ph.D. students and undergraduate researchers in the lab, including guidance on research methods, technical writing, and professional development.
• Participating in collaborative research efforts with internal and external partners.

Additional (optional) responsibilities (10%) may include:

• Contributing to the development of research proposals and fellowship applications.
• Assisting with dissemination of research outcomes through conferences, workshops, and seminars.

This position is not eligible for H-1B visa sponsorship.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Civil Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, or a closely related field (e.g., Engineering Mechanics).
• Strong background in continuum mechanics and constitutive modeling of solids.
• Demonstrated experience with finite element methods, including model development, implementation, and validation.
• Proficiency in scientific programming, with experience in one or more languages such as Python, MATLAB, and/or FORTRAN.
• Ability to conduct independent research and collaborate effectively within an interdisciplinary research environment.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, with demonstrated experience to lead peer-reviewed journal publications.
• Demonstrated ability or interest in mentoring graduate and undergraduate students.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with viscoelastic, hyperelastic, or damage/fracture models for soft or polymeric materials.\
• Experience with physics-informed, data-driven modeling approaches, including SciML.
• Interest in interdisciplinary research spanning mechanics, computation, and applied mathematics.

The AEM department has vibrant and active research programs in all areas of aerospace engineering and mechanics, including computational solid mechanics, fluid dynamics, hypersonics, aerospace systems, and aerospace structures and materials. The department is in the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Minnesota, which is a world-class research university with outstanding resources and programs in engineering and science, health sciences, social sciences and liberal arts. The AEM department has close ties with on-campus multidisciplinary centers, and convenient access to outstanding shared experimental and computational facilities, such as the Gemini-Huntley Robotics Research Laboratory of the Minnesota Robotics Institute, the Minnesota Nano Center, the Characterization Facility, the Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, and the Minnesota Supercomputing Institute. More information about the department is available at https://cse.umn.edu/aem.

Pay Range: $61,108 - $62,232 annually; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Please visit the Benefits for Postdoctoral Associates website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

To be considered, applicants should submit the following materials:

• A cover letter describing research background, interests, and fit with the position.
• A curriculum vitae (CV).
• Names and contact information for three references familiar with the applicant's research.

Applications must be submitted online. Please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a over letter and resume. Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing the "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section. To request an accommodation during the application process, please contact employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

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