Nuclear and Particle Physics, Astrophysics and Cosmology Graduate Student

What You Will Do

The NPAC theory group studies the most fundamental physics of the Universe from the tiniest to the largest scales in Nature. We develop and employ the most modern theoretical and computational tools to probe everything from quarks and gluons in nuclei, to dramatic black hole and neutron star mergers emitting gravitational waves; from nuclear structure to rare isotopes; from nuclear fusion to nuclear fission for energy and security;

from ghostly neutrinos to the mysterious dark matter in the Universe. Specifically, our group has teams of scientists researching Astrophysics & Heliophysics, Basic Nuclear Theory, High‑Energy Physics, Nuclear Reactions in light and heavy elements, and applications of these areas to practical problems in science and national security.

You will work on a research project with a staff scientist mentor and co‑mentor in one of these areas, expected to begin in summer/fall 2026.

Minimum

Job Requirements:

• Currently enrolled in an accredited graduate degree program in any Theoretical Physics, Mathematics (or related) discipline.
• Must be enrolled in at least 6 semester credit hours (or full‑time equivalent).
• Must currently have and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent).

Desired

Qualifications:

• Experience with conducting scientific research.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate (verbal and written) well in a professional scientific context.

Work Location:

The work location for this position is onsite and located in 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.

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 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)

Directive 206.2 – Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. This requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.

No Clearance:
Position does not require a security clearance. Selected candidates will be subject to drug testing and other pre‑employment background checks.

New‑Employment Drug Test:
The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new‑employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre‑offer.

Internal Applicants:
Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.

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…