Radiation Detection and Modeling Postdoctoral Researcher

What You Will Do

The Space Science and Applications Group (ISR-1) at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is seeking candidates for a postdoctoral researcher to assist with one or multiple projects

related to radiation detection modeling and simulation, detector characterization, and radiation transport tool development.

Candidates with a range of experience are encouraged to apply and will be matched to projects that best fit their expertise and interests.

ISR-1 is part of the Intelligence and Space Research (ISR) division at LANL.

We specialize in building, operating, and analyzing data from space-based instruments for a range of national security and basic science missions and are supported by

many different government agencies including the DOE, DOD, and NASA. If you are passionate about space, knowledgeable about radiation and its effects,

and excited to work with a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and technicians then this is a great opportunity for you!

What You Need

Minimum Job Requirements:
  • Experience in radiation detection methods and instrumentation.
  • Experience in radiation transport modeling and simulation.
  • Experience with object-oriented programming (C++/Python).
  • Demonstrated ability to document and communicate scientific results.

Education/Experience

Ph.D. in physics, nuclear engineering, or a closely related field by the beginning of the postdoctoral appointment, obtained no earlier than October 2019.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Experience using Geant4 and/or MCNP to simulate detector response.
  • Experience in C++-based code development in a collaborative coding environment, including version control (e.g. Git).
  • Experience with laboratory characterization of radiation detectors for neutron and/or gamma-ray detection using radioactive sources.
  • Experience with laboratory electronics for signal processing and data acquisition.

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 .

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.

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.

Incentive Compensation Program: For general program information refer to the Student Programs web page: https://www.lanl.gov/careers/career-options/student-internships/index.php

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.