Spring 2027/Fall 2027 - Research Assistant [OPEN]

The Howard University Geomaterials Research Laboratory (GeoRL) invites applications for one fully funded Ph.D. position in geotechnical engineering/geomechanics beginning in Spring or Fall 2027. The selected candidate will conduct cutting-edge research in computational geotechnics, with a focus on the development of advanced numerical models for geomaterials subjected to extreme environmental conditions. Research topics include multiphase and multiphysics modeling of soils, with particular emphasis on discrete element methods (DEM) and finite element/finite volume approaches.

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Applicants should possess a strong background in geotechnical engineering, geomechanics, and numerical modeling. The successful candidate will work on particulate-scale modeling of soils and coupled fluid-flow processes in porous media under thermal and environmental loading conditions. Experience with numerical simulation platforms such as PFC2D/3D, FLAC2D/3D, and COMSOL Multiphysics is highly desirable. Strong programming skills are required, and experience with C++ programming is considered an asset.

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A minimum quantitative reasoning GRE score of 160 will be accepted. Please refer to the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering website for additional admission requirements. Qualified candidates should email Dr. Karam A Jaradat (karam.jaradat@howard.edu) with their CV and cover letter detailing their experience and fit to the announced position.​