Atomistic Modeling Postdoc
- Req. Number: IRC146193
- Organization : MST-8 / Structure/Property Relations
- City, State: Los Alamos, New Mexico
MST-8 is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to support the study of materials under extreme conditions, particularly under irradiation. This position will focus on applying atomic scale simulation methods - density functional theory, molecular dynamics, and accelerated molecular dynamics - to the study of defects in ionic oxides as they pertain to performance under extreme environments. The successful candidate will examine point defect properties as a function of oxide chemistry and crystal structure, determine the structure and properties of grain boundaries and heterointerfaces in oxide ceramics, and integrate result with companion experimental efforts to understand the structural, chemical, and electronic evolution of these materials under extreme conditions.
The postdoctoral researcher will work as part of multidisciplinary teams connecting ion beam irradiation, electrochemical analysis, synchrotron x-ray analysis, atomistic modeling, and advanced electron microscopy. The position will include integrating atomic scale information into higher level models of defect evolution in materials.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
- Demonstrated experience with atomic scale modeling techniques including density functional theory and molecular dynamics.
- Demonstrated expertise on the properties of defects in ionic materials, including defect chemistry and the role of charge on defect properties.
- Demonstrated ability to carry out independent and collaborative research in computational materials science at the atomistic scale.
- Demonstrated ability to meet technical milestones, project deliverables, and sponsor expectations in a research or development environment.
- Demonstrated ability to convey research results via publications and presentations.
Desired Qualifications:
- Knowledge of radiation effects in oxides.
- Familiarity with modeling techniques for materials beyond the atomic scale.
- Experience considering the interaction of electric fields with the properties of materials.
- Exceptional communication skills of novel and advanced techniques to both highly-technical and broad audiences.
- Experience developing and modifying software to support scientific investigations.
Education:
Ph.D. in physics, materials science, applied physics, or a closely related field.
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.
Note to Applicants:
Candidates may be considered for a Director's Fellowship and outstanding candidates may be considered for the prestigious Marie Curie, Richard P. Feynman, J. Robert Oppenheimer, or Frederick Reines Fellowships.
For general information to the Postdoc Program go to http://www.lanl.gov/careers/career-options/postdoctoral-research/index.php.
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.
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)
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.
No Clearance: 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.
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