Plasma Physics Post-Doctoral Researcher

What You Will Do

Are you looking for an exciting opportunity to do cutting-edge plasma physics research? If the answer is "yes", we encourage you to learn more about being a postdoctoral researcher

in the Plasma Theory and Applications Group (XCP-6). You would join a team that applies and develops theoretical and computational physics tools to model plasmas.

Areas of particular interest include high energy density physics; turbulence and/or perturbed plasma flows; and algorithm and model development for plasmas and high energy density science.

This research may lead to the design, fielding, and analysis of ICF/HED experiments at the Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE), and National Ignition Facility (NIF) lasers or on the

Z pulsed-power facility. Your work would be expected to lead to peer-reviewed publications, as well as to support the national-security programs and mission of the Laboratory.

What You Need

Required Qualifications:

Technical Background

A background in theoretical and/or computational plasma physics or closely related field

Simulations

Demonstrated experience in setup, execution and postprocessing physics codes for science or engineering applications

Journals/Conferences

A record of published research in peer-reviewed journals or conference proceedings. Demonstrated ability to communicate research to an interdisciplinary audience orally and in writing

Clearance

Ability to obtain a Q clearance, which typically requires U.S. citizenship.

Education/Experience

PhD in physics, engineering, mathematics, or a related field. A candidate may be considered for a postdoctoral position within five years of

receiving their Ph.D. or will have completed all Ph.D. requirements by commencement of appointment. Ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment

Desired Qualifications:

Simulations

Experience with running large, parallel codes in a high-performance, Unix computing environment.

Analysis of experimental data and/or simulation results

Experience in fielding and analysis of experimental data and/or experience in modeling ICF/HED experiments.

Achievement

A record of achievement in any of the following: thermonuclear burn physics, MHD, plasma physics (theory, simulation, code development), plasma transport and turbulence, or kinetic plasma effects.

Clearance

An active Q clearance would be a plus

Work Environment:

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:

Applicants must apply online. The application package should include a CV and a cover letter (2 pages or less) that addresses each of the required and

any of the desired job requirements. Your letter and CV should provide contact information for 3 or 4 references who are familiar with your qualifications as related to this job.

Applicants with questions may contact Radha Bahukutumbi, radha@lanl.gov. Anyone who meets the required qualifications is encouraged to apply.

This position qualifies for benefits including vacation, medical, sick time, parental leave, and retirement.

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 maternity and parental leave
  • Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
  • Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
  • Flexible schedules and time off (paid sick, vacation, 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.

Clearance: Q (Position may be cleared to this level). Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements* for access to classified matter. This position requires a Q clearance which requires US Citizenship except in extremely rare circumstances. Dependent upon position, additional authorization to access nuclear weapons information may be required that may or may not be available to dual citizens depending upon the circumstances.

*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.

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 Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.

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 or preference, 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.

Instructions on How to Activate/Create a LANL Jobs Account:

Follow the instructions below if you have ever had an employee Z number, been a contractor, or received Los Alamos Lab insurance coverage to activate your account:

• Select the Click Here button if you have been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage.

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Follow the instructions below if you if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to create an account:

• Select the Register button if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to Create an Account.

• From here, you will establish an account with username and password

How to Apply: How to Apply: Login to Your Account to Complete the Application Process

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