1

Geophysics Postdoc Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Geophysics Postdoc information

What is a geophysics postdoc?

Geophysics Postdocs are researchers who have recently earned their PhD in geophysics or a related field and are undertaking further specialized research under the supervision of senior scientists. Their work typically involves studying the physical processes and properties of the Earth, such as seismic activity, magnetic and gravitational fields, or subsurface structures. Postdoctoral positions are usually temporary, lasting from one to three years, and help researchers gain experience, publish scientific papers, and develop expertise before pursuing permanent academic or industry roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a geophysics postdoc?

To thrive as a Geophysics Postdoc, you typically need a Ph.D. in geophysics or a related field, with a strong background in quantitative research and data analysis. Familiarity with scientific programming languages (such as Python or MATLAB), geophysical modeling software, and data visualization tools is crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and collaborative skills help in publishing research and working within multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are vital for advancing scientific understanding and contributing impactful research in the geosciences.

What are some common collaborative projects a geophysics postdoc might be involved in, and how do they typically work with interdisciplinary teams?

As a Geophysics Postdoc, you will often participate in collaborative projects that involve working closely with experts from geology, engineering, and computer science. These projects may include field data collection, geophysical modeling, and the interpretation of complex datasets for natural resource exploration or environmental studies. Postdocs frequently contribute specialized knowledge in areas like seismic imaging or computational geophysics and are expected to communicate findings clearly to non-specialists. This interdisciplinary teamwork fosters a dynamic environment and provides opportunities to broaden your skill set and professional network.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Geophysics Postdoc jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Geophysics Postdoc job openings:

Infographic showing various Geophysics Postdoc job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Postdoc: Machine Learning Downscaling

Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Campus, IL • On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Job Details

New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That's our focus at JPL. We ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers-literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission-your opportunity-is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you're driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you're ready for JPL.

Located in Pasadena, California, JPL has a campus-like environment situated on 177 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and offers a work environment unlike any other: we inspire passion, foster innovation, build collaboration, and reward excellence.

JPL is unique among NASA Centers in that its staff are Caltech employees, yet can access NASA technical resources. Cross-discipline teamwork is standard here: colleagues across JPL's science and engineering organizations and on Caltech's academic campus often work together. Learning to speak and understand other disciplines' languages is a doorway to the creativity needed to do what has not been done before. JPL staff are encouraged to create mission concepts that address humanity's core questions through a combination of science and technology. They are supported in developing ideas into proposals and hardware, and in communicating funded missions' results to the scientific community and the broader public. JPL seeks to employ scientists and engineers who are passionate about lifelong learning and excited to both contribute to and lead team efforts. We emphasize the importance of partnering across discipline boundaries and creating a friendly, constructive work environment to overcome space exploration's challenges. The Postdoctoral scholars at JPL benefit from an informal mentoring network, an annual conference showcasing their results, a dedicated seminar series, exposure to diverse career paths, and social connections across the JPL and Caltech community for advice on housing, childcare, and other aspects of living in southern California.

The selected postdoc will develop, test, and evaluate machine-learning downscaling models; analyze model performance and results; and contribute to the continued development and maintenance of the project workflow. The position offers an opportunity to apply advanced machine-learning techniques to Earth and planetary science research while working closely with JPL scientists and contributing to peer-reviewed publications.

Qualifications

  • Ph.D. in Earth Science, Atmospheric Science, Geophysics, Computer Science, or a related field.
  • Demonstrated experience developing and evaluating machine-learning or statistical downscaling models.
  • Strong programming and data-analysis skills, preferably in Python.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively on a research-focused project.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Applicants may be subject to additional program requirements by NASA. Postdoc positions are awarded for a minimum of one-year period and may be renewed up to a maximum of three years. Candidates should submit the following to this site: CV, representative publications, contact information for three references, and a cover letter stating their research accomplishments and interests.

JPL has a catalog of benefits and perks that span from the traditional to the unique. This includes a variety of health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans, paid time off, learning, rideshare, childcare, flexible schedule, parental leave and many more. Our focus is on work-life balance, and living healthy, fulfilling lives as we Dare Mighty Things Together. For benefits eligible positions, benefits are effective the first day of the month coincident with or immediately following the employee's start date.

For further benefits information click Benefits and Perks

The hiring range displayed below is specifically for those who will work in or reside in the location listed. In extending an offer, Jet Propulsion Laboratory considers factors including, but not limited to, the candidate's job related skills, experience, knowledge, and relevant education/training.

The typical full time equivalent annual hiring range for this job in Pasadena, California.

$83,820 - $83,820

JPL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, protected military or veteran status or any other characteristic or condition protected by Federal, state or local law.

In addition, JPL is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

EEO is the Law.

EEO is the Law Supplement

Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory is a federal facility. Due to rules imposed by NASA, JPL will not accept applications from citizens of designated countries or those born in a designated country unless they are U.S. Citizens, Legal Permanent Residents of the U.S or have other protected status under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). The Designated Countries List is available here.