Postdoctoral Researcher, Distributed Fiber Optic Sensing and Seismic Modeling - Sandia National Laboratories

[Stanciu, Christian]

Dear colleagues, 

Sandia National Laboratories is seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join our team in advancing Distributed Fiber Optic Sensing (DFOS) technologies, with a specific focus on Distributed Strain Sensing (DSS). Additionally, this position would require background seismic knowledge related to building 3D geophysical models, running, and analyzing seismic simulations.  This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in stress characterization and explosion monitoring, leveraging innovative fiber optic sensing methodologies and novel source and earth characterization techniques. The successful candidate will work on the characterization of stress field in a testbed at the Nevada National Security Site. Candidates must be U.S. citizens. 

 

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement analysis methodology using DSS data collected across short-length fiber optic cables
• Analyze and interpret in-situ stress conditions using DSS data collected before and after key experiments
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate DSS findings into broader geophysical and geological contexts 
• Build and design 3D geophysical models; run and analyze seismic simulations for use in novel seismic source and earth characterization algorithms
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at scientific conferences

Required Qualifications:

• PhD in geophysics, seismology, or a related field
• Strong expertise in signal processing and data analysis
• Proficiency in scientific programming (Python, MATLAB, or equivalent)
• Solid experience with fiber optic sensing technologies
• Familiarity and experience with geophysical modeling
• Demonstrated ability to write scientific publications in English

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) or other DFOS technologies. 
• Background in stress characterization techniques
• Strong collaborative skills and ability to work in interdisciplinary teams

Location: Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque, NM

Expected Start Date: August-September 2026

Application Process: To apply please follow this link:

https://sandia.jobs/albuquerque-nm/postdoctoral-researcher-distributed-fiber-optic-sensingseismic-modeling-hybrid/93C53B2B95ED4C0FAAFDE4C3B41ACBFE/job/

For additional information you can reach out to Christian Stanciu (ast...@sandia.gov) or Leiph Preston (lpr...@sandia.gov). 

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Join us in advancing the frontiers of Distributed Fiber Optic Sensing and contributing to impactful research in geophysical modeling and stress characterization!