Graduate Research Assistant

What You Will Do

The Fluid Dynamics and Solid Mechanics Group (T-3) of the Theoretical Division seeks outstanding candidates for a graduate research assistant position in multiphase flow theory and modeling. Successful candidates will conduct research in a combination of topics including theoretical and computational fluid‑structure interactions, compressible multiphase flows, and related model and algorithm developments. This group conducts research in theoretical and computational continuum dynamics, modeling and simulation of fluids and deforming solids over multiple length scales with emphasis on coupling advanced models and numerical methods for materials dynamics at all velocities and with coupled physical processes.

Projects focus on large solid deformation, multiphase flows, chemical reactions, phase change, heat and mass transfer, and combustion. The group is multidisciplinary, drawing on engineering, physics, and applied mathematics. Customers include the National Nuclear Security Administration’s Nuclear Weapons Program, other Department of Energy offices, the Department of Defense, and private industry.

Enrollment in a Master’s or Doctoral Degree in Physics, Applied Mathematics, Engineering, or a closely related field. A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.2 on graduate coursework. Ability to work within a collaborative team environment and desire to learn new things and be open to working on different projects.

• Ability to independently learn the usage of scientific software packages and how to perform analytical calculations.
• Research experience in theoretical modeling and numerical computation of fluid dynamics, solid deformations, or a related field of physics.

Onsite, Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.

Located in Northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. LANL enhances national security by ensuring the safety and reliability of the U.S. nuclear stockpile, developing technologies to reduce threats from weapons of mass destruction, and solving problems related to energy, environment, infrastructure, health, and global security concerns.

• PPO or high‑deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network.
• Dental and vision insurance.
• Free basic life and disability insurance.
• Paid childbirth and parental leave.
• Award‑winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually).
• Learning opportunities and tuition assistance.
• Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays).
• Onsite gyms and wellness programs.
• Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50‑mile radius).

For full consideration a package must include CV. Applicant reviews will begin on January 3rd, 2026. The initial appointment is for 3 months, with possible extensions of up to 3–4 years depending on progress and funding. If you have any questions, please contact minw or jwaters. Salaries range from $36.52/hr to $42.36/hr depending on education completed. Full salary information can be found at https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).%20

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Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process.