Constitutive Modeling and Advanced Numerical Methods Postdoc

What You Will Do

The Solid Mechanics-Damage and Failure team, within T-3 group of the Theoretical Division, is seeking a highly motivated and productive postdoc candidate to accomplish advancements in the area of theoretical and computational modeling, with a focus on microstructure and/or defect statistics enriched constitutive modeling. Of interest is research performing verification and validation simulations and thoroughly assessing and advancing the ability of continuum constitutive models to reproduce the realistic dynamic behavior of materials. The successful candidate will engage in weekly communication of accomplishments with the primary mentor, contribute know-how in technical discussions, fulfill technical goals, and satisfy required deliverables, such as codes, models, and know-how in the form of LANL reports, peer-reviewed publications, presentations, and software. Follow LANL safety and security procedures.

What You Need

Minimum Job Requirements:


Education/Experience: A Ph.D. in Engineering, computational physics, or related fields. The candidate must have proficiency and experience with FORTRAN.

Desired Qualifications:

  • Simulation on a high-performance computing cluster.
  • Coursework in continuum mechanics and experience in the area of computational solid mechanics.
  • Abaqus finite element analysis.
  • Ability to work in a multi-disciplinary team setting.
  • Strong evidence of peer-reviewed journal publications and conference presentations.


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.

Salary: Competitive salaries are based on the date the PhD degree requirements were completed or the degree was awarded. Starting salary for a new graduate is currently $94,500. For more information go to Postdoc Program website at https://www.lanl.gov/careers/career-options/postdoctoral-research/index.php .

Note to Applicants:

LANL reserves the right to extend the posting date at any time until a suitable candidate is hired. Include current C.V., names of three professional references, and a cover letter. The postdoc appointment is valid for two years and can be extended for another year. Candidates who have demonstrated excellence in research will be considered for nomination to named fellowships at the laboratory.
Where You Will Work

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 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)
Additional Details

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

Q Clearance: Selected applicants will be subject to a background investigation conducted by or on behalf of the Federal Government, and must meet eligibility requirements* for access to classified matter. This position requires a Q clearance. and obtaining such clearance requires US Citizenship except in extremely rare circumstances. Dependent upon the position, additional authorization to access classified information may be required, which may or may not be available to dual citizens. Receipt of a Q clearance and additional access authorization ultimately is a decision of the Federal Government and not of Triad.

*Eligibility requirements: To obtain a clearance, an individual must be at least 18 years of age; U.S. citizenship is required except in very limited circumstances. See DOE Order 472.2 for additional information.

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.

Equal Opportunity: 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, 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, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp@lanl.gov or call 1-505-665-4444 option 1.