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Research Geophysicist Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Earth Scientists develop technical skills in geoscience, geophysics, and petrophysics assignments ... Participation in an energy industry or sponsored university research project. * Practical ...

Geophysicists with specialties such as seismic acquisition, seismic imaging and processing, cloud ... Participation in an energy industry or sponsored university research project. * Practical ...

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Research Geophysicist information

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$45.2K

$88.9K

$134.2K

How much do research geophysicist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for research geophysicist in Texas is $88,890.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,200.00 and $104,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research geophysicist?

A Research Geophysicist studies the Earth's physical properties using advanced scientific methods and geophysical techniques. They analyze seismic, magnetic, electrical, and gravitational data to understand subsurface structures and processes. Their work is used in various fields, including natural resource exploration, environmental studies, and hazard assessment. Research Geophysicists often work in academia, government agencies, or private industries, contributing to advancements in geophysical methods and technologies.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a research geophysicist?

A Research Geophysicist's daily responsibilities often include designing and conducting field surveys, analyzing geophysical data using specialized software, developing geoscientific models, and preparing detailed reports or presentations of their findings. Collaboration is a key aspect of the role, as you'll frequently work with other geoscientists, engineers, and sometimes regulatory agencies to achieve project objectives. Regular tasks may also involve staying updated with the latest scientific literature and presenting research at conferences. The blend of fieldwork, data analysis, and teamwork makes for a dynamic work environment with opportunities for ongoing learning and professional development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research geophysicist?

To thrive as a Research Geophysicist, you need a solid background in geophysics, geology, mathematics, and data interpretation, typically supported by an advanced degree such as an M.S. or Ph.D. in geophysics or Earth sciences. Proficiency with geophysical data acquisition tools, seismic interpretation software, and programming languages like Python or MATLAB is often required, along with familiarity with specialized analytical instruments. Critical thinking, strong communication, and teamwork skills help you effectively analyze findings and present results to both scientific and non-technical audiences. These skills and qualities are essential for conducting rigorous research, driving innovation, and effectively collaborating on multidisciplinary projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Geophysicist jobs in Texas?

The most popular types of Research Geophysicist jobs in Texas are:

What are popular job titles related to Research Geophysicist jobs in Texas?

For Research Geophysicist jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Geophysicist jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Geophysicist jobs in Texas are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for Research Geophysicist jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Research Geophysicist job openings:

Infographic showing various Research Geophysicist job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 78% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,890 per year, or $42.7 per hour.

Postdoctoral Associate - Earth Environmental Planetary Sciences

Rice University

Houston, TX • On-site

$65K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Rice University rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

150th of 628 rated colleges and universities


Job description


Position Summary
Dr. Ian McBrearty's lab in the Department of Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences is looking to hire a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the field of Machine Learning & Geophysics.
The McBrearty Lab sits at the intersection of machine learning and physics, focusing on developing data-driven techniques for earthquake monitoring, processing data from large seismic networks, and developing neural-surrogate emulations of PDEs governing tectonic and volcanic processes.
The ideal candidate will hold a Ph.D. in a quantitative field with strong Python and deep learning skills to build data-driven tools for earthquake detection and geophysical forecasting. They will be responsible for developing graph neural networks (GNNs), advancing PDE emulation methods, publishing high-impact research, and utilizing high-performance computing resources. Review of applications begins September 1, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. Informal inquiries can be sent to Dr. Ian McBrearty at im76@rice.edu.
Workplace Requirements:
On campus position: This position is exclusively on-site, necessitating all duties to be performed in-person in Houston, Texas. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.
*Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.
This position is funded by a grant, soft and/or restricted funds. Continued employment is contingent on the renewal of funding.
Proposed Salary: $65,000
Essential Functions
  • Develops and deploys machine learning models (specifically graph neural networks) to process large, spatially irregular seismic datasets and advance neural-surrogate emulations of PDEs governing geophysical processes
  • Documents, analyzes, and maintains research data
  • Publishes and presents research findings
  • Supports project management and collaboration across institutions or disciplines
  • Performs all other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications and Skills
  • Ph.D. in Geophysics, Computer Science, Data Science, Applied Mathematics, or a related quantitative field
  • Strong Python programming skills and practical experience with deep learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow) for scientific data analysis
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, as well as oral presentation skills
  • Organization and time management skills
  • Knowledge of modern research methods, data collection, and analyses
  • Ability to write scholarly papers based on ongoing research in order to submit them to journals for publication
  • Able to work in a collaborative environment
  • Able to work independently and professionally with minimal supervision and direction

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with Graph Neural Networks (GNNs) or physics-informed machine learning (PINNs).
  • Background in seismological software packages (e.g., ObsPy) and large-scale, high-performance computing (HPC) data processing.

Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits
Rice Mission and Values: Mission and Values | Rice University
Rice University is committed to ensuring Equal Employment Opportunity and welcoming the fullness of diversity into our candidate pools. Rice considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. Rice also provides reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. If an applicant requires a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, please get in touch with Rice University's Human Resources Office via email at facstaffada@rice.edu for support.
If you have any additional questions, please email us at jobs@rice.edu . Thank you for your interest in employment with Rice University

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