LAB-0C0060

What You Will Do

Sigma-2 is seeking a postdoc for electron microscopy based characterization of radiation, hydrogen, and helium effects on microstructures of candidate metals for fusion applications. Techniques will include conventional diffraction contrast (S)TEM, in situ straining TEM, HR-TEM, at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL). In-situ irradiation, precession electron diffraction (PED), and other EM techniques may also be performed at other EM user facilities. A successful candidate will work with a team of experimentalist and modelers to develop and validate models concerning the evolution of microstructure and mechanical properties in simulated fusion environments. Of particular importance is the role of interfaces (twin and phase boundaries) and the 3D nature of boundary kinetics. The position will be awarded to the candidate demonstrating exceptional talent with a successful collaborative and scientific track record. Of particular importance is the interaction of radiation induced defects and interfaces with solute atoms such as hydrogen and/or helium. The position will be awarded to the candidate demonstrating exceptional talent with a successful collaborative and scientific track record.
Los Alamos National Laboratory provides expertise and facilities for characterizing, understanding, and modeling the relationships between materials properties and their underlying structures. Capabilities span multiple divisions including Sigma and Materials Science and Technology, and include the EML is based in the Materials Science Laboratory which boasts an Apreo SEM, an Apreo2 SEM, an Inspect-F SEM, a Helios 600 dual-beam Ga+ FIB/SEM, a Helios G5 dual-beam Xe+ PFIB/SEM, an image-corrected Titan 80-300 S/TEM, and a Spectra Ultra probe-corrected S/TEM. Additionally, Sigma division hosts an additional Helios G5 dual-beam Xe+ PFIB/SEM, and Apreo2 SEM.
What You Need

Minimum Job Requirements:
  • Expertise is required in advanced TEM characterization (e.g., weak beam dark field, diffraction contrast, STEM)
  • Experience characterizing defects (dislocation Burgers vectors, twin boundary character, phase boundaries) using (S)TEM and HR-TEM.
Desired Skills:
  • Experience with a monochromated, image-corrected FEI Titan and other FEI SEMs and TEMs.
  • Experience with radiation-induced defect characterization
  • Experience with advanced SEM-based techniques (e.g., EBSD, TKD).
  • Ability to obtain Q-clearance

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.

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 $97,000. For more information go to Postdoc Program website at https://www.lanl.gov/careers/career-options/postdoctoral-research/index.php

Education: A PhD in materials science, nuclear engineering, physics, chemistry, or a related engineering discipline completed within the last 5 years or soon to be completed.

Notes to Applicants: For technical questions related to this position contact Dr. Rodney J McCabe (rmccabe@lanl.gov).

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 maternity and parental leave
  • Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
  • Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
  • Flexible schedules and time off (paid sick, vacation, and holidays)
  • Onsite gyms and wellness programs
  • Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)

Additional Details:

Q Clearance: Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements* for access to classified matter.

*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.

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.
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 regards 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.

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How to Apply: How to Apply: Login to Your Account to Complete the Application Process
  • Click the Vacancy Name number (in blue) to view any job's details.
  • Click Apply or Add to Basket to apply later. Tip: To apply for a job or save your basket, you must have a LANL jobs account.
  • If you experience any technical issues, please email applyhelp@lanl.gov for assistance.