Postdoctoral Fellow in Structural Engineering (University of Alberta)

Description This competition is open to all applicants however; internal candidates and applicants who were former employees of the University of Alberta will be given priority consideration before external candidates. Please log in to verify your internal candidate status. This position is part of the Post Doctoral Fellows Association and has an initial appointment of 12 months. This position has a comprehensive benefits package. Location - Work primarily takes place at North Campus, Edmonton. Working at the University of Alberta The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community. The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide. Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people — from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more. Position Summary We are currently seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow in Structural Engineering with a focus on seismic design and modular construction. The ideal candidate will hold a PhD in a related field and demonstrate a strong research background in structural design and performance-based engineering. We are looking for someone who communicates effectively, is passionate about applied research, and can work both independently and as part of a collaborative team. Experience in seismic analysis, modular or prefabricated construction, and advanced modelling techniques is considered a valuable asset. Responsibilities include conducting structural analysis, contributing to the development of innovative building solutions, engaging with project partners, and supporting knowledge mobilization efforts. This is a one-year appointment with the possibility of an extension. The salary will be commensurate with qualifications. The Postdoctoral Fellow in Structural Engineering will play an integral role in advancing research related to seismic performance and modular construction. Key responsibilities include conducting research (30%) in structural resiliency, seismic design, and computational modelling, with a focus on practical applications in innovative building systems. The fellow will collaborate closely with researchers and engineers (20%), assist in developing and validating analytical models (25%), and maintain strong communication with industry and community partners (10%). Additional duties include supporting research grant applications, preparing technical reports (10%), and contributing to the coordination of academic events and workshops (5%). Duties Conduct research in structural resiliency, seismic design, modularisation and computational mechanics Collaborate with a team of researchers, engineers, and project partners Develop and implement analytical models and simulation tools Maintain effective communication with off-campus collaborators and stakeholders Assist in the preparation of research grant applications, technical reports, and contract proposals Support the organization of conferences, workshops, and outreach events Minimum Qualifications Hold or expect to obtain a PhD degree in civil engineering, structural engineering, or a closely related discipline (e.g., mechanical engineering with a structural focus, or computer science with relevant expertise in modelling or simulation). Strong background in structural resiliency, seismic design, and computational mechanics. The applicant should be highly motivated, well organized, and passionate about research, with good communication skills in English and a competent publication record. Preferred Qualifications Previous work experience as a structural engineer is considered a strong asset. Proven expertise in OpenSees or OpenSeesPy is a bonus. Familiarity with other research and commercial structural analysis software, such as PERFORM 3D, Sap2000, Abaqus, or Ansys, is also considered a strong asset. Strong scripting and programming skills, particularly demonstrated expertise in using Python, and a willingness to learn new skills such as machine learning techniques and algorithms are considered strong assets. Experience in developing experimental setups and conducting physical tests is beneficial. Previous experience with light wood frame and mass timber design and construction is considered a significant asset. How to Apply: To apply, please submit the following in a single .PDF document: Cover Letter Curriculum Vitae Academic Transcripts References (Please provide names and contact information of 3 references. We are not requesting reference letters with the initial application.) At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted. All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms—physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of inclusivity and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns. The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply. L’Université de l’Alberta s’engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes ayant une orientation sexuelle ou une identité et une expression sexospécifique; et tous ceux qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler. Note: This opportunity will be available until midnight July 22, 2025, Edmonton, Alberta local time. If you apply for this position please say you saw it on Engineeroxy

Description

This competition is open to all applicants however; internal candidates and applicants who were former employees of the University of Alberta will be given priority consideration before external candidates. Please log in to verify your internal candidate status.

This position is part of the Post Doctoral Fellows Association and has an initial appointment of 12 months.

This position has a comprehensive benefits package.

Location - Work primarily takes place at North Campus, Edmonton.

Working at the University of Alberta

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people — from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.

Position Summary

We are currently seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow in Structural Engineering with a focus on seismic design and modular construction. The ideal candidate will hold a PhD in a related field and demonstrate a strong research background in structural design and performance-based engineering. We are looking for someone who communicates effectively, is passionate about applied research, and can work both independently and as part of a collaborative team. Experience in seismic analysis, modular or prefabricated construction, and advanced modelling techniques is considered a valuable asset. Responsibilities include conducting structural analysis, contributing to the development of innovative building solutions, engaging with project partners, and supporting knowledge mobilization efforts. This is a one-year appointment with the possibility of an extension. The salary will be commensurate with qualifications.

The Postdoctoral Fellow in Structural Engineering will play an integral role in advancing research related to seismic performance and modular construction.

Key responsibilities include conducting research (30%) in structural resiliency, seismic design, and computational modelling, with a focus on practical applications in innovative building systems. The fellow will collaborate closely with researchers and engineers (20%), assist in developing and validating analytical models (25%), and maintain strong communication with industry and community partners (10%). Additional duties include supporting research grant applications, preparing technical reports (10%), and contributing to the coordination of academic events and workshops (5%).

Duties

Conduct research in structural resiliency, seismic design, modularisation and computational mechanics
Collaborate with a team of researchers, engineers, and project partners
Develop and implement analytical models and simulation tools
Maintain effective communication with off-campus collaborators and stakeholders
Assist in the preparation of research grant applications, technical reports, and contract proposals
Support the organization of conferences, workshops, and outreach events

Minimum Qualifications

Hold or expect to obtain a PhD degree in civil engineering, structural engineering, or a closely related discipline (e.g., mechanical engineering with a structural focus, or computer science with relevant expertise in modelling or simulation).
Strong background in structural resiliency, seismic design, and computational mechanics.
The applicant should be highly motivated, well organized, and passionate about research, with good communication skills in English and a competent publication record.

Preferred Qualifications

Previous work experience as a structural engineer is considered a strong asset.
Proven expertise in OpenSees or OpenSeesPy is a bonus.
Familiarity with other research and commercial structural analysis software, such as PERFORM 3D, Sap2000, Abaqus, or Ansys, is also considered a strong asset.
Strong scripting and programming skills, particularly demonstrated expertise in using Python, and a willingness to learn new skills such as machine learning techniques and algorithms are considered strong assets.
Experience in developing experimental setups and conducting physical tests is beneficial.
Previous experience with light wood frame and mass timber design and construction is considered a significant asset.

How to Apply:

To apply, please submit the following in a single .PDF document:

Cover Letter
Curriculum Vitae
Academic Transcripts
References (Please provide names and contact information of 3 references. We are not requesting reference letters with the initial application.)

At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms—physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of inclusivity and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.

The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.

L’Université de l’Alberta s’engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes ayant une orientation sexuelle ou une identité et une expression sexospécifique; et tous ceux qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.

Note: This opportunity will be available until midnight July 22, 2025, Edmonton, Alberta local time.

If you apply for this position please say you saw it on Engineeroxy

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