The geotechnical research program (Program) at FHWA’s Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center (TFHRC) in McLean, VA is seeking a postdoctoral associate and/or an established, renowned researcher to provide in-depth technical support to the group’s current and emerging research focus areas and topics. The Program primarily conducts applied engineering research that aims to advance the state-of-practice for geotechnical engineering in highway transportation and to develop innovative solutions for practical transportation issues. The goal of this research is to develop quality datasets that lead to advancements in design guidance, design methodologies, test methods, and best practices. Candidates with interest and experience in one or more of the following topics are preferred:

• Geotechnical Aspects of Scour
• Geotechnical Aspects of Pavements
• Characterization of Lightweight and/or Recycled Materials
• Performance Metrics and Deterioration Models for Geotechnical Assets
• Geosynthetic Reinforced Soil

Proposals with innovative research ideas that support the above topics are welcome. The researcher is expected to work collaboratively with federal and contract staff in the TFHRC Geotechnical Laboratory and other laboratories within the FHWA Office of Infrastructure Research and Development and provide effective communication of their research with other FHWA offices, relevant industry groups, external stakeholders, and external collaborators. 

key words

geotechnical engineering; scour; erosion; unbound materials; stabilized materials; recycled materials; lightweight backfills; aggregates; geosynthetics; reinforced soil; foundations; retaining walls; embankments; corrosion; performance metrics; design; laboratory testing

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens, permanent residents and non-U.S. citizens

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral and Senior applicants