Job Description

Posting Details
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Institution South Dakota Mines
Working Title Postdoctoral Researcher
Posting Number NFE02891P
Department SDSMT-Physics 1
Physical Location of Position (City) Rapid City
Posting Text
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.
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.
To Apply:
South Dakota Mines is committed to recruiting and retaining a talented workforce and offers an excellent comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life coverage options for employees, spouses and dependents; retirement plans; paid holidays; and a generous vacation and sick day allowance. Individuals interested in this position must apply online at Careers at Mines (sdsmt.edu). Human Resources can provide accommodation to the online application process and may be reached at (605) 394-1203. Review of applications will begin December 15, 2025 and will continue until the position is filled. 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, affiliation, job title, email address and phone number for each reference).
Posting Date 11/03/2025
Closing Date
Open Until Filled Yes
First Consideration Date 12/15/2025
Advertised Salary Minimum of $58,000 depending on education and experience
Duration of the Term 12 months
If Other, describe duration
Appointment Percent 100%
Work Hours
Typical Hours Worked Per Week
Appointment Type Regular
Faculty Status No
Scope of Search External (includes Internal)
If internal, define scope of search
This position requires Travel, Valid Drivers License, Other
If other, please indicate Occasionally requires overnight or weekend stays for on-going lab test.
Department Description and Cultural Expectations
Founded in 1885, South Dakota Mines is the premier destination for ambitious students seeking bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degrees at the intersection of innovation and tradition. Renowned for hands-on learning and pioneering research, Mines educates future leaders in STEM fields who will make a meaningful impact on the world. Our vibrant community of supportive faculty, tenacious students, and passionate alumni fosters a culture of ingenuity, collaboration, and lifelong success.
Nearly 2,500 students from every state and over 40 countries are represented on the Mines campus. The university is recognized for its rigorous curriculum and boasts a strong return on investment for its graduates. With an average class size of 24 and a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio, Mines is committed to delivering an education that equips students with the skills and experience needed to thrive in their chosen fields.
At Mines, student life is vibrant and welcoming, offering more than 80 clubs and organizations that foster a sense of community and provide leadership opportunities. Co-curricular activities, such as internships, cooperative education opportunities, and professional development programs, ensure that students gain practical, hands-on experience in their fields while enhancing their academic learning. Students can explore their passions outside the classroom, from competitive athletics, music programs, and intramural sports to professional societies, competitive engineering teams, and cultural clubs.
South Dakota Mines faculty, staff, and students drive groundbreaking research across five main areas: advanced materials and manufacturing, deep underground science and engineering, critical and sustainable resources, smart and resilient cyber-infrastructure, and data science and numerical modeling. This research advances technology and innovation and offers students hands-on opportunities to address real-world challenges, preparing them for leadership roles in their careers and beyond. With a strong emphasis on entrepreneurship, South Dakota Mines provides programming that empowers students and faculty to transform scientific and technological innovations into viable products and startups.
Rapid City, the home of the Hardrockers, is the state's second-largest city, with an MSA population of over 158,000. The city sees an average of 226 days of sunshine annually and is surrounded by many things to see and do. The region has roughly 1.2 million acres of breathtaking scenery in the Black Hills National Forest, 700 miles of motorized trails, nearly 500 miles of hiking trails as well as top attractions like historic Deadwood, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, Badlands National Park, Terry Peak Ski Area, and Reptile Gardens.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
South Dakota Mines is an Equal Opportunity Employer. South Dakota Mines and the Board of Regents ensure that all employment practices are free of discrimination.
Contact Information

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