Condensed Matter Theory Scientist (Scientist 4)

What You Will Do

The Physics of Condensed Matter and Complex Systems group in Theoretical Division at Los Alamos National Laboratory seeks an outstanding scientist to strengthen the group's efforts in theoretical condensed matter physics.

The successful candidate will be a member of a research team that focuses on theoretical and computational modeling of new phenomena and properties of strongly correlated electron materials as well as collaborate with the experimental counterparts. The candidate is expected to lead a competitive and internationally visible research program, and to successfully propose and develop research initiatives in emerging areas of research in the general area of correlated electron matter. The candidate should be able to work effectively as part of a dynamic, multidisciplinary group conducting research on topics which include (but are not limited to) strong correlation effects, quantum phase transition and criticality, quantum spin dynamics, interplay between correlation and topology, non-equilibrium phenomena. Through active collaboration the candidate should also enhance the experimental condensed matter physics research programs at Los Alamos National Laboratory. There exist clear opportunities for a variety of expertise to make an impactful contribution to condensed matter physics, quantum matter and related topics.

The successful candidate will
  • Have a broad knowledge of condensed matter physics and materials physics. Publish research in leading scientific journals.
  • Outstanding record of publications and research impact.
  • Ability to mentor early career staff, postdocs and students.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.
  • National and international stature in his/her field of research.

What You Need

Minimum Job Requirements:

  • Have expert knowledge of condensed matter physics and materials physics, particularly strong correlation effects.
  • Publish research in leading scientific journals.
  • Outstanding record of publications and research impact.
  • Demonstrated ability to acquire funding.
  • Experience mentoring postdocs and students.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills as demonstrated by publishing, cover letter, and presentations.

Education/Experience:

Position requires a Master's degree in a STEM field from an accredited college or university and 12 years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Ph.D. in theoretical condensed matter physics
  • Demonstrated contributions to the area of strongly correlated electron systems.
  • Ease of collaboration with experimentalists.
  • Proven leadership skills in quantum condensed matter.
  • Experience with conference organization and team building.
  • Ability to integrate with National Lab (and DOE) safety, security, and environmentally compliant culture.
  • An understanding of and interest in LANL's research portfolio and its mission.
  • Able to foster an environment of creativity and intellectual vibrancy.
  • Multidisciplinary approach to research.

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.

Position commitment: Regular appointment employees are required to serve a period of continuous service in their current position in order to be eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the time required, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. The position commitment for this position is 1 year.

Note to Applicants:

In addition to submitting their CV, applicants are encouraged to include a cover letter describing their research interests and addressing the above requirements and qualifications, and the names of three referees.
For further questions please contact Jian-Xin Zhu at jxzhu@lanl.gov.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.
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.

Regular position: Term status Laboratory employees applying for regular-status positions are converted to regular status.

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, 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.