The Center for Catastrophe Modeling and Resilience at Lehigh University seeks a motivated and talented Postdoctoral Research Associate to contribute to our research initiatives and academic programs. This role offers a unique opportunity to work with Professor Rahnemoonfar in the field of Computational Modeling, Machine Learning, Remote Sensing, and Data Analytics, engage in cutting-edge research, and gain experience in mentorship and academic service.
Position Number: S61850
Anticipated Salary: Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, including benefits.
About the Role The incoming postdoctoral researcher will conduct research on AI-driven disaster damage assessment and catastrophe-aware resilience modeling in Professor Rahnemoonfar’s research group and Center for Catastrophe Modeling and Resilience. The
researcher will contribute to the development of integrated frameworks that combine catastrophe modeling, multimodal data, and advanced artificial intelligence techniques for scalable pre- and post-disaster analysis. The researcher is expected to develop independent
research initiatives, actively engage with the research group and interdisciplinary collaborators, and participate in the broader research activities of the Center for Catastrophe Modeling and Resilience.
Key Responsibilities
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Conduct independent and collaborative research in AI-driven disaster damage assessment, catastrophe modeling, multi-modal data analysis, and remote sensing analytics.
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Develop advanced Physics-informed machine learning and deep learning models for damage modeling and prediction and uncertainty quantification using multimodal geospatial datasets and numerical models.
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Design and implement scalable AI pipelines for large-scale disaster monitoring and resilience analysis.
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Prepare and publish research findings in high-impact peer-reviewed journals and present results at national and international conferences.
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Contribute to proposal writing and interdisciplinary research collaborations with academic, industry, and government partners.
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Mentor graduate and undergraduate students in research activities, data analysis, and AI model development.
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Participate in the center seminars, workshops, and collaborative research initiatives across Lehigh University.
Qualifications:
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Doctoral degree in Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, or a closely related field, completed by the start of the appointment.
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Strong background in machine learning, deep learning, computer vision, or geospatial AI.
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Experience with disaster modeling, catastrophe modeling, resilience analytics, or geospatial risk assessment.
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Proficiency in Python and deep learning frameworks such as PyTorch or TensorFlow.
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Demonstrated publication record in reputable journals and conferences related to AI and Civil Engineering
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Strong communication, collaboration, and interdisciplinary research skills.
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Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a collaborative research environment.
Terms of Appointment:
This is a full-time, one-year position with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability. The position will start on a mutually agreed-upon date.
Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, including benefits. Please visit the Postdoctoral Affairs Office website for the compensation policy at Lehigh University.
Application Process:
Applicants should submit:
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A cover letter detailing research experience, career goals, and how they align with the position.
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A curriculum vitae (CV).
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A research plan.
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Three recommendation letters.
Application Deadline: August 1, 2026, or until filled.
Lehigh University offers a vibrant and inclusive work environment that fosters professional growth, personal development, and a strong sense of community. With a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, we value the unique perspectives and experiences of our employees. Competitive benefits, including comprehensive healthcare plans, tuition remission, and retirement savings opportunities, ensure your well-being and long-term success. Lehigh University is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate. We are committed to a culturally and intellectually diverse community and we seek qualified candidates to contribute to the university’s mission.
Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing an accommodation for any part of the interview or hiring process may contact Lehigh's Accommodations Specialist.
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The duties of the position do not allow for a remote work option; the employee in this position will be required to work on campus where they can be fully accessible to the Lehigh community
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This position works with minors
Successful completion of standard background checks including but not limited to: social security verification, education verification, national criminal background checks, motor vehicle checks, PATCH, FBI fingerprinting, Child Abuse Clearance and credit history based upon the requirements of the position.
Only complete applications will be considered therefore please complete the application in its entirety. Once the posting is removed from the website applications may no longer be allowed to be completed.
