Experimental Nuclear Physics Postdoc | Los Alamos, NM | Los Alamos National Laboratory

Experimental Nuclear Physics Postdoc

What You Will Do


A postdoctoral position in Experimental Nuclear Physics is available with the Nuclear and Particle Physics and Applications Group (P-3), Physics Division at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We are seeking exceptional candidates to join us and work in the field of fundamental neutron physics. LANL is leading major efforts in this field. Our current projects include: (1) precision measurement of neutron decay parameters using cold neutrons (the Nab experiment at SNS), (2) a measurement of the neutron lifetime using bottled ultra-cold neutrons (the UCNτ experiment) and development of its upgrade (the UCNτ+ experiment), (3) development of a new room temperature experiment to search for the neutron electric dipole moment using the LANL ultracold neutron source (LANL nEDM experiment), (4) development of an experiment to measure the neutron beta asymmetry using ultracold neutrons (UCNA+ experiment), and (5) measurement of the partial lifetime of the neutron decaying into a proton, an electron and an antineutrino using ultracold neutrons. In addition, we are exploring applications of ultracold neutrons for material characterizations.

For this search, the successful candidate is expected to work on the LANL nEDM experiment and will be responsible for development and operation of various parts of the experiment. In addition, for interested candidates, there is a possibility to pursue applications of ultracold neutrons to studies of material properties relevant to the Laboratory's mission.

The successful candidate will join teams of other postdocs and staff members as well as university collaborators and will have the opportunity to publish results to the international community and engage in career development by speaking in a variety of venues. The work will include: 1) developing, assembling, and testing various parts of the LANL nEDM experiment, 2) leading the effort to commission the LANL nEDM experiment, and 3) analyzing data.

What You Need

Minimum Job Requirements:


The successful candidate will have a strong background and publication record in experimental nuclear and particle physics, or closely related field. Evidence of good communication skills is also required.

Education: A PhD in experimental nuclear physics or related field completed within the last five years or soon to be completed is required.

Desired Qualifications:

Prior experience with one or more of the following is not required but is desired:
  • Precision measurements in atomic, nuclear, particle, or astroparticle physics
  • Electric dipole moment experiments
  • Experiments that use ultra-cold neutrons or cold neutrons
  • Experience with ultracold neutron sources
  • Particle detectors for nuclear and high energy physics
  • Data analysis of nuclear and particle physics experiments
  • Experience with high voltage systems
  • Precision magnetometry
  • Simulation and data analysis


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 $92,000. For more information go to Postdoc Program website at https://www.lanl.gov/careers/career-options/postdoctoral-research/index.php .

Note to Applicants:

For further technical information, please contact Dr. Takeyasu Ito at 505-606-1985 or ito@lanl.gov, or Dr. Steven Clayton at 505- 665- 2827 or sclayton@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.

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 1-505-665-4444 option 1.