RESEARCH SCIENTIST - SR. RESEARCH SCIENTIST - Seismologist - Seismic Hazard Analysis

Southwest Research Institute - San Antonio, TX

Full-time - Entry Level

San Antonio, TX

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The Research Scientist - Sr. Research Scientist - Seismologist position focuses on conducting probabilistic seismic hazard assessments for critical facilities, particularly in the nuclear sector. This role is crucial as the world increasingly considers nuclear power as a viable solution to meet energy demands while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The successful candidate will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of geologists, geophysicists, and geotechnical engineers to evaluate seismic sources and integrate findings into engineering and risk assessments. In this role, the scientist will utilize advanced software and methodologies to develop seismic source and ground motion models, assessing uncertainties associated with these models. Staying updated with the latest developments in seismology, earthquake engineering, and hazard analysis is essential, as is the ability to incorporate new methodologies into ongoing projects. The position also requires the preparation of comprehensive reports and presentations that effectively communicate complex concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences. Additionally, the scientist will provide expert consultation to clients, regulatory authorities, and internal teams regarding seismic hazard assessments and participate in business development efforts to expand the organization's capabilities in this field.

Responsibilities

• Conduct probabilistic seismic hazard assessments for critical facilities, especially commercial nuclear sites.
• Evaluate technical information regarding seismic sources from earthquake records, paleoseismology, structural geology, and neotectonics.
• Utilize state-of-the-art software and methodologies to develop seismic source and ground motion models.
• Assess uncertainties associated with seismic models and findings.
• Stay abreast of the latest developments in seismology, earthquake engineering, and hazard analysis.
• Prepare comprehensive reports and presentations for both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Provide expert consultation to clients, regulatory authorities, and internal teams on seismic hazard assessments.
• Participate in business development efforts.

Requirements

• PhD in Seismology, Geophysics, or a related field.
• Proven experience in probabilistic seismic hazard analysis, focusing on seismic source models, including active faults and earthquake records.
• Proficiency in software tools such as OpenQuake, SeisRiskIII, and other industry-standard applications.
• Familiarity with programming languages such as Python, MATLAB, or similar.
• A track record of publications and contributions to the advancement of seismological research.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information to diverse audiences.
• Ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams and manage projects independently.
• Must have US Citizenship or have held US Permanent Residency for at least 5 years.
• A valid/clear driver's license is required.