Shock Physics and Materials at Extreme Postdoctoral Research Associate

What You Will Do

The Shock & Detonation Physics Group (M-9) at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) has openings for multiple Postdoctoral Research Associates. Our work utilizes dynamic drivers (explosives, single- and two-stage gas guns, lasers) and static high pressures (diamond anvil cells, Paris-Edinburgh presses) to study fundamental physics and chemistry of relevance to the behavior of materials at extreme pressures and temperatures. We also perform experiments at synchrotron and free electron laser user facilities such as the Dynamic Compression Sector at the Advanced Photon Source, the Linac Coherent Light Source at SLAC, Sandia’s Z-machine, DESY, and the European XFEL.

Our research informs multiscale models for equations of state used in the DOE s science-based stockpile stewardship assessment. We seek outstanding internally motivated candidates interested in shock physics or detonation physics. Prior experience in high pressure research is desired, but less important than a solid background in experimentation, a strong intellectual curiosity, and meticulous laboratory skills.

• Equations of state and detonation properties of high explosives
• Equations of state and phase changes of inert materials, such as polymers, foams, ceramics, and metals
• Novel measurements and diagnostic development capable of elucidating material properties under single event dynamic loading conditions

The postdoctoral program at LANL enables successful candidates to tailor the direction of their research projects to best align with their background and interests, as well as the needs of our programmatic sponsors.

Minimum

Job Requirements:

Safety Practice

• Demonstrated ability to work safely and productively in a fast-paced team setting with minimal supervision.
• Experience in experimental scientific research and development.

Communication

• Excellent interpersonal skills, verbal and written communication skills, and experience interacting with personnel at all levels.
• Ability to explain and present technical information, both verbally and in written form, to an audience with varied technical backgrounds.

Clearance

• Ability to obtain and maintain a US Department of Energy (DOE) Q Clearance, which typically requires US citizenship.

Education/Experience

• A Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Geology, or a closely-related field earned within 5 years of the anticipated start date.

Desired

Qualifications:

Technical Knowledge

• Experience with dynamic experiments or high-strain-rate mechanics
• Experience performing research on high explosive materials
• Experience as a user at facilities such as synchrotrons or XFELs
• Experience with velocimetry, high speed imaging, pyrometry, X-ray, or laser-based diagnostics
• Experience using oscilloscopes and instrumentation to acquire short duration, single occurrence events

Systems & Tools

• Experience with computer programming languages for instrument control, data acquisition, and data analysis (e.g. LabVIEW, MATLAB, Python).

Clearance

• Active DOE Q clearance (or equivalent)

Work Location

The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM.

Applicants should submit a CV and a detailed cover letter. Candidates selected for an interview will be required to provide three confidential letters of recommendation.

The initial appointment will be for a period of two years and will be renewable for a third year contingent upon progress and funding availability. The successful applicant(s) will be also considered for prestigious Director s Funded and named Fellowships e information about these can be found at:
Postdoc Appointment Types.

Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People s Republic of China, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People s Republic of North Korea, and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.

Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:

• PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
• Dental and vision insurance
• Free basic life and disability insurance
• Paid maternity 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)

Additional Details

Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2.…