Postdoctoral Researcher Los Alamos, NM

Postdoctoral Researcher – Materials Science & Technology (MST-8)

Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM, US

The MST‑8 Materials Science and Technology group offers an exciting postdoctoral opportunity in meso‑scale modeling of plasticity and damage in heterogeneous crystalline metals. The candidate will join the Materials Modeling and Characterization under Extreme Environments (MATEE) team, focusing on advanced computational mechanics models to predict the effects of extreme conditions—high stresses, temperatures, radiation, and corrosion—on mechanical response and microstructure evolution.

• Lead the development of a phase‑field‑based model to predict metal corrosion in molten salt reactor environments.
• Apply advanced thermodynamics and electrochemistry principles to model extreme environment effects.
• Publish results in high‑impact peer‑reviewed journals and present at major conferences.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary researchers across the division.

• Experience in modeling and simulations.
• Experience in chemistry/electrochemistry.
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communications skills.
• Strong publication record.

• Advanced knowledge of thermodynamics and electrochemistry.
• Experience in phase‑field modeling.
• Experience in Fast Fourier Transform–based simulations.
• Experience in uncertainty quantification.
• Programming skills in C++, Python, and Fortran.
• Ability to adapt to new project requirements and learn new tools.

A PhD in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, Physics, or related fields completed within the last four years.

• PPO or high‑deductible medical insurance with 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).

Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People’s Republic of China (including Hong Kong and Macau), the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation who are not lawful permanent residents are prohibited from accessing facilities that support national‑security laboratory functions, which includes LANL.

Position does not require a security clearance. Selected candidates will be subject to drug testing and other pre‑employment background checks.

Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal‑opportunity employer and supports a diverse and inclusive workforce. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation or preference, 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 federal laws and regulations.

The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations upon request.

Submit a cover letter describing your professional interests, career goals, and related skills, along with your résumé and a statement of research interests and goals (email to laurent). The work location is onsite at Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.

Contact Name:
Laurent
Email:
laurent