APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the term length discussed will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Larson Transportation Institute in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at The Pennsylvania State University invites applications for a highly motivated Postdoctoral researcher in pavement engineering, with an emphasis on advanced sensing technologies and machine learning modeling. The successful candidate will contribute immediately to cutting-edge research projects supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF), NCHRP, and other major funding agencies. The position is anticipated to start in January 2026.
Candidates should meet the following requirements:
Hold a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering or a closely related engineering discipline.
Possess a strong background and demonstrated experience in pavement engineering and materials, engineering mechanics, and advanced computational modeling.
Exhibit advanced analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Demonstrate excellent experimental skills, with proficiency in asphalt binder and mixture testing.
Have a proven record of conducting high-quality research and disseminating results through publications and presentations.
Display strong English writing, presentation, and communication skills.
Show evidence of leadership ability.
Preferred qualifications:
Knowledge and experience in dynamics and vibration, discrete element modeling, sensors and data processing techniques, and machine learning modeling.
Key responsibilities of the position:
Lead and conduct research on advanced characterization and modeling of asphaltic and granular materials, with an emphasis on integrating sensing technologies and machine learning approaches. Mentor and supervise graduate and undergraduate students in research activities, fostering technical growth and professional development. Collaborate and coordinate with internal teams, external research groups, and industry partners to advance project goals. Prepare and publish high-quality research papers, technical reports, and presentations for academic and industry audiences. Support the Principal Investigator (PI) in developing competitive research proposals and pursuing external funding opportunities.
Interested candidates should include with their application: 1) an academic CV; 2) a statement of research vision and future career goals; and 3) names of at least three academic references. Candidates are also encouraged to contact Dr. Shihui Shen ([email protected]) for questions and/or inquiries. Please include "Pavement postdoc position" in the email subject.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
BENEFITS
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.
For more detailed information, please visit ourBenefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.
Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster
PA State Labor Law Poster
Penn State Policies
Copyright Information
Hotlines
AI & Machine Learning (1)