Postdoctoral Researcher

The Physics Department at South Dakota Mines invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher position to work on the germanium-based science and technology advancement research. This is a full-time, benefited position. In collaborating with USD and other universities in South Dakota, the successful applicant will play a major role in R&Ds including laboratory testing and characterization of germanium detectors, develop advanced Monte Carlo models and AI-driven analysis tools to optimize detector response, and to promote precision medical imaging and low energy dark matter searches and neutrino experiments.

Located in Rapid City, next to the scenic Black Hills of South Dakota, South Dakota Mines is the leading science and engineering university in the region. The campus is an hour’s drive from the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF), historic home of the noble-prize-winning Ray Davis experiment on solar neutrino oscillations, and home of the LZ, MAJORANA Demonstrator, and CASPAR experiments, and the DUNE/LBNF far detector. The university has made a focus of underground physics experiments to increase our understanding of particle/astroparticle physics and nuclear astrophysics. Physics faculty at South Dakota Mines are conducting internationally recognized research in particle/astroparticle physics, dark matter search, neutrino physics, nuclear astrophysics, as well as condensed matter and materials science.

The preferred starting date of this position is July 1, 2026. The position would remain open for new applications until filled.

Qualifications:
Candidates should hold a PhD in experimental nuclear or particle physics. Experience with gamma-ray spectroscopy, germanium detectors and applications, GEANT4 simulations, as well as proficiency in C++ programming, is highly preferred.

Applications must be made online at https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu. South Dakota Mines is committed to recruiting and retaining a talented workforce and offers an excellent comprehensive benefits package for employees, spouses and dependents; retirement plans; paid holidays; and a generous vacation and sick day allowance. Human Resources can provide accommodation to the online application process and may be reached at (605) 394-1203 or hr@sdsmt.edu. Review of applications will begin June 1, 2026. Employment is contingent upon completion of a satisfactory background investigation.

Please attach a cover letter, resume, and a list of three professional references (include name and email address for each reference).

Founded in 1885, South Dakota Mines is the premier destination for ambitious students seeking bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees in STEM fields. Our vibrant community of supportive faculty, tenacious students, and passionate alumni fosters a culture of ingenuity, collaboration, and lifelong success. South Dakota Mines is recognized frequently for its rigorous curriculum, groundbreaking research, and return on investment.

Rapid City, the home of the Hardrockers, is the state’s second-largest city with an MSA population of nearly 160,000. The city is nestled next to the beautiful Black Hills, a region boasting breathtaking scenery, hundreds of miles of trails for outdoor enthusiasts, and attractions ranging from complex cave systems to historic towns and massive monuments.