Description

Job Summary

Unearthly Materials Inc. is seeking a scientist with strong expertise in finite element analysis (FEA), computational solid mechanics, and high-pressure materials modeling to lead simulation and modeling efforts for materials subjected to extreme conditions in diamond anvil cells (DACs).

This role focuses on modeling stress, strain, deformation, fracture, defect evolution, and structural response of ultra-hard and complex materials under very high pressure, including materials such as diamond, gasket materials, anvils, and high-pressure sample assemblies. The successful candidate will work closely with experimental high-pressure, structural characterization, and materials synthesis teams to interpret DAC behavior, understand failure mechanisms, and establish robust structure– property–stress relationships under extreme conditions. Candidates with demonstrated technical ownership, such as building simulation workflows, developing constitutive models, correlating simulations with experimental data, or solving fracture and defect problems in extreme environments, are strongly encouraged to apply.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead finite element modeling efforts for materials and assemblies under extreme pressure, including diamond anvil cells and related high-pressure platforms.
• Model stress distributions, contact mechanics, deformation, fracture initiation, crack propagation, and defect-sensitive failure in diamond, anvils, gaskets, and sample materials.
• Develop and refine computational workflows for simulating ultra-high-pressure loading, nonlinear mechanics, elastic/plastic deformation, and multiphysics effects where relevant.
• Analyze the role of crystal defects, inclusions, geometry, and boundary conditions on material performance and failure under compression.
• Correlate simulations with experimental observations from DAC measurements, X-ray diffraction, and related structural probes.
• Support design optimization of DAC assemblies, sample geometries, and experimental configurations to improve pressure generation, reproducibility, and mechanical stability.

About Unearthly Materials

Unearthly Materials, Inc. is an innovative, deep-tech materials company at the frontier of superconducting technology. We have created novel compounds and processes that allow for superconductivity in ambient conditions–a scientific breakthrough poised to revolutionize numerous industries including energy, transportation, medicine, and microelectronics.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• Demonstrated hands-on expertise in finite element analysis and computational modeling of materials under extreme conditions, including:
  • Non-linear solid mechanics
  • Contact mechanics
  • Fracture mechanics
  • Defect/stress analysis
  • High-pressure material response
• Strong understanding of constitutive behavior, elasticity, plasticity, brittle fracture, damage, and mechanics of ultra-hard materials.
• Experience using FEA tools such as ANSYS, Abaqus, COMSOL, or equivalent.
• Strong data analysis skills and commitment to rigorous, reproducible computational modeling.
• Ability to work closely with experimental teams and translate simulation results into actionable experimental insight.

Preferred Experience

• Experience modeling diamond anvil cells, high-pressure assemblies, or materials at multi-GPa to ultra-high-pressure conditions.
• Familiarity with diamond mechanics, crack initiation, defect sensitivity, and brittle failure.
• Familiarity with anisotropic materials behavior, crystal defects, or multiscale modeling is a plus.
• Candidates with demonstrated technical ownership, such as building simulation pipelines, developing constitutive models, or solving failure problems in extreme environments, are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Flexibility to work evenings or weekends as needed to meet critical deadlines.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Competitive salary (commensurate with experience)
• Flexible working hours
• Collaborative, high-impact research environment

Equal Opportunities Statement

Unearthly Materials is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, or any other factor protected by law.

Requirements

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• Demonstrated hands-on expertise in finite element analysis and computational modeling of materials under extreme conditions, including:
  • Non-linear solid mechanics
  • Contact mechanics
  • Fracture mechanics
  • Defect/stress analysis
  • High-pressure material response
• Strong understanding of constitutive behavior, elasticity, plasticity, brittle fracture, damage, and mechanics of ultra-hard materials.
• Experience using FEA tools such as ANSYS, Abaqus, COMSOL, or equivalent.
• Strong data analysis skills and commitment to rigorous, reproducible computational modeling.
• Ability to work closely with experimental teams and translate simulation results into actionable experimental insight.