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Fusion Energy Analytical Postdoc

What You Will Do

The Chemical Diagnostics and Engineering Group (C-CDE) at Los Alamos National Laboratory a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join our multidisciplinary team investigating computational aspects of the Fusion Fuel Cycle. You will play a key role in developing and applying advanced modeling and simulation techniques to advance our understanding and capabilities in this critical area of fusion energy research. As part of the Chemical Processes and Applied Technologies team, the successful candidate would have an opportunity to:
  • Develop and implement computational models using appropriate software tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python, Fortran).
  • Perform simulations to predict the behavior of fusion fuel cycle systems under various conditions.
  • Analyze simulation results and interpret physical phenomena.
  • Collaborate with experimentalists to validate models and inform experimental design.
  • Contribute to the development of predictive tools for optimizing fuel cycle processes.
  • Participate in writing research papers and presenting findings at conferences.
  • Collaborate with team members, including physicists, engineers, and technicians.

C-CDE is an applied technology organization focused on resolving national security-related issues in stockpile manufacturing and support, surveillance, applied and basic energy sciences, threat reduction, and the environment. The group's core approach involves the integrated development and application of technologies in Analytical Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Electrochemistry, Materials Science, and Chemical Engineering. C-CDE engages in areas important to Laboratory missions, including material characterization and development and environmental mitigation. The highly interdisciplinary nature of these activities requires scientists and engineers who can seamlessly operate across academic disciplines. The successful applicant will work both collaboratively and independently on C-CDE projects.

What You Need

Minimum Job Requirements:
  • Strong background in mass transfer, separation processes, chemical reactor modeling, and phase equilibrium.
  • Experience with process modeling and simulation techniques.
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as MATLAB, C++, Fortran, or Python.
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication skills (both oral and written).

Desired Qualifications:
  • Experience with fusion research or related fields (e.g., plasma diagnostics, materials characterization).
  • Proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools like Python, MATLAB, etc.
  • Experience with industrial plant operations or process design.
  • Knowledge of engineering economics and cost analysis.
  • Background in statistical mechanics or molecular dynamics.

Education and Experience:

PhD in Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Nuclear Engineering or a closely related field.

Work Location: The work location for this position is located in Los Alamos, NM.

Note to Applicants:
When applying, candidates must attach a resume, cover letter that addresses how the candidate meets the minimum job requirements, and their most recent transcripts showing evidence of degree conferral.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.

Clearance: Q (Position will be cleared to this level). Selected applicants will be subject to a background investigation conducted by or on behalf of the Federal Government, and must meet eligibility requirements* for access to classified matter. This position requires a Q clearance. and obtaining such clearance requires US Citizenship except in extremely rare circumstances. Dependent upon the position, additional authorization to access classified information may be required, which may or may not be available to dual citizens. Receipt of a Q clearance and additional access authorization ultimately is a decision of the Federal Government and not of Triad.

*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, 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 and then option 3.