Senior Research Scientist (PREP0004534)

Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore (MD); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins University invites applications for the PREP Research Associate position focused on investigating the seismic performance of low-damage structural systems. This role involves studies to design structures that minimize damage and maintain functionality post-earthquake.

A PhD in Civil Engineering or Structural Engineering is preferred, alongside expertise in nonlinear modeling and programming. The researcher will engage in parametric studies and develop design guidelines to enhance the use of innovative low-damage technologies.

Qualifications

• U.S. citizenship preferred.
• Extensive experience in nonlinear modeling using OpenSees.
• Expertise in rocking and low-damage structural systems.

Responsibilities

• Conduct parametric studies on engineering demand parameters.
• Develop nonlinear structural models for analysis.
• Create guidelines for low-damage systems implementation.
• Develop new low-damage technologies.
• Create a structural component database.
• Evaluate cost-benefits across seismic hazards.

Skills

Nonlinear modeling

Programming in Python

Programming in MATLAB

Programming in Tcl

Performance-based seismic design

Rocking and low-damage structural systems

Oral communication skills

Written communication skills

Education

PhD in Civil Engineering or Structural Engineering

Tools

OpenSees

Job description

PREP Research Associate

This position is part of the National Institute of Standards (NIST) Professional Research Experience (PREP) program. NIST allows its research staff to collaborate with academic institutions on projects of mutual interest that are funded through a PREP award. The program employs staff from a wide range of backgrounds to conduct scientific research.

Research Title

Low‑Damage Rocking Structures

Description of Work

A structural engineering researcher will support a project investigating the seismic performance of low‑damage structural systems. The goal is to design structures that maintain post‑earthquake functionality and minimize damage. The researcher will conduct studies, develop nonlinear models, and evaluate the influence of ground‑motion selection on rocking behavior to provide guidelines for practicing engineers.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct parametric studies of rocking and conventional buildings to identify influential ground‑motion characteristics on engineering demand parameters
• Develop nonlinear structural models and evaluate both conventional and low‑damage systems
• Create design guidelines to promote wider use of low‑damage structural systems
• Develop and test new low‑damage technologies focused on implementation
• Create a structural component database using experimental testing and programming expertise
• Evaluate cost‑benefits of rocking systems across seismic hazards and building types

Qualifications

• U.S. citizenship preferred
• PhD in Civil Engineering or Structural Engineering with a focus in Earthquake Engineering
• Extensive experience in nonlinear modeling using OpenSees
• Programming expertise in Python, MATLAB, and Tcl
• Familiarity with performance‑based seismic design
• Expertise in rocking and low‑damage structural systems and published work demonstrating modeling ability
• Experience in large‑scale structural testing, component testing, and shake‑table testing
• Strong oral and written communication skills

Equal Opportunity Employer

NIST is an equal‑opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on merit and qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or any other protected characteristic.