AI Researcher (Critical Mineral Discovery)

TL;DR

AI Researcher (Data Science/Geophysics): Developing and deploying new methods for critical mineral exploration and resource definition with an accent on multi-physics inversion and muon tomography. Focus on applying deep generative models and physics-informed neural networks to characterize ore deposits using real exploration data.

Location: Stanford, CA (Hybrid/Remote options mentioned, but requires periodic travel to industry partner sites and field programs)

Salary: $80,000 – $90,000

Company

hirify.global is an AI-driven mineral exploration company collaborating with Stanford Mineral-X to discover critical minerals.

What you will do

• Develop stochastic and ensemble inversion frameworks to assimilate multi-physics data into 3D subsurface models.
• Perform forward modeling and inversion of cosmic-ray muon attenuation data from borehole and surface detectors.
• Apply deep generative models and physics-informed neural networks for regional-to-deposit-scale targeting.
• Extend intelligent agent frameworks to optimize sequential data acquisition and drill hole placement.

Requirements

• PhD in physics, geophysics, computational earth sciences, machine learning, or applied mathematics.
• PhD must be fully completed within 4 years of graduation.
• Strong Python proficiency (NumPy, PyTorch or JAX) and experience with HPC and GPU computing.
• Proven track record of publishing in peer-reviewed scientific venues.

Nice to have

• Research experience in geophysical inversion, Bayesian methods, or particle physics detection.
• Experience with muon transport simulation (GEANT4, CORSIKA) or full-waveform inversion.
• Familiarity with mineral systems and ore deposit geology.
• Work with diffusion models, normalizing flows, or other generative models.

Culture & Benefits

• Fully funded 3-year postdoctoral fellowship.
• Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Conference travel support to disseminate research.
• Direct engagement with industry collaborators and access to active field programs.