Molecular Biology & Computation Postdoc

What You Will Do

The Steadman Lab at Los Alamos National Laboratory is seeking multiple enthusiastic postdoctoral candidates to conduct research in the areas of molecular/cellular biology and epigenomics. Our team collectively develops and performs both wet-bench experiments and computational analyses for understanding chromatin structure-function dynamics and epigenetic regulation of cellular processes. We are looking for new team members for our projects on pathogen impacts on epigenomic responses in mammalian and plant cells. Specifically, candidates will aid in the development of new single cell 'omics assays and perform experiments and analyses focused on ascertaining global and local chromatin structure responses to both plant and human viruses. Successful candidates will work closely with postdoctoral researchers and scientists across disciplines including epigenetics, virology, genomics, bioinformatics, modeling, machine learning, exascale computing, and advanced visualization. In addition to being motivated, versatile, and independent, we are seeking candidates who will collaboratively contribute to a positive, diverse, and inclusive environment in the lab with a strong willingness to learn. These positions are supported for two years (with a possible third year extension) with a competitive salary and excellent benefits.



What You Need

Minimum Job Requirements:


  • PhD in a STEM-related field with a focus in molecular biology, virology, immunology, plant physiology, or plant genomics
  • Demonstrated experience with cell culture or plant cultivation
  • Experience in developing wet bench/experimental assays
  • A strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals
  • Excellent written, graphical, and oral communication skills
  • Self-motivated with the ability to work effectively in a team
  • Demonstrated basic understanding of genomics, epigenetics, or gene regulatory processes

Education/Experience: All candidates must have completed their Ph.D. requirements by commencement of the appointment or have completed their PhD within the last five years. Candidates may also have previous experience, including postdoctoral experience. Previous experience in epigenetics/epigenomics will be considered an advantage but is not essential.

Desired Qualifications:

  • Experience working with pathogens or experience in plant genomics
  • Experience with generating and/or analyzing 'omics data sets (Hi-C, ATAC-seq, ChIP-seq, RNA-seq)
  • Fluency in one or more coding languages

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:

We encourage applications from underrepresented job seekers; please let us know if you require special accommodation to fully participate in our recruitment experience. No candidate is expected to have all of the desired skills. Those who meet the education and minimum job requirements are encouraged to apply. Please provide a CV and a comprehensive cover letter that includes a list of references and their contact information. Your cover letter should explain your interest in the position and how your education and experience fulfill the minimum job requirements and desired qualifications. In addition to applying online, applicants may email questions and/or their application package to Dr. Steadman: crsteadman@lanl.gov. Candidates will be contacted for telephone interviews starting in August 2024.
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.

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.




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 1-505-664-6947 option 2 and then option 3.