Applied Acoustics Post Bachelors Student

What You Will Do

Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in science and engineering on behalf of national security. The Applied Acoustics Team (MPA-11) is looking for a post‑bachelor’s student with strong experimental and data analysis skills. We are seeking a highly motivated individual to join a multidisciplinary research team and contribute to the development of new acoustic characterization systems, across both industrial and non‑proliferation application spaces.

This work involves complex experimental work, as well as significant data analysis and signal processing.

Our current work focuses on applied research for material characterization (solids, liquids, gases), acoustical imaging, nonlinear acoustics, acoustic separation of two‑phase systems, detection of corrosion and other defects in materials and acoustically engineered materials. The work involves the development of new techniques, customized instrumentation and validation of measurements in the field. The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to the development of new sensing technologies, patents and publications.

There will be opportunities to work in a wide range of areas, to innovate, and present work to sponsors and conferences.

• B.S. in Applied Physics, Engineering, Materials Science or a closely related field, earned within the last five years or soon to be completed
• Strong technical background in one or more of the following areas: signal processing, advanced data analysis, finite element analysis (especially COMSOL), ultrasonic techniques, nondestructive testing, machine learning, time‑reversal acoustics
• Fluency in one or more computer programming languages (e.g., Matlab, Python, Visual Basic, C++, LabVIEW, etc.)
• Hands‑on experience designing and conducting experiments
• Demonstrated experience in conducting original scientific research through peer‑reviewed publication record
• Experience with complex experimental design/execution and associated data analysis
• Demonstrated capability to act both creatively and independently to accomplish tasks given by senior personnel

• Knowledge of electronics and typical laboratory test instruments, such as function generators, oscilloscopes, piezoelectric transducers, DAQs, microphones, hydrophones, etc.
• Experience with CAD software
• Experience in ultrasonic flaw detection, acoustic imaging, or acoustic characterization of materials
• Experience with acoustic resonance techniques (i.e. ARS, RUS, etc.)
• Ability to adapt to new requirements for projects and be flexible to learn new areas of research as needed
• Ability to obtain DOE Q clearance (usually requires US citizenship)

The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.

Dr. Eric Davis, esdavis

Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China— including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau— as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (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.

• 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…