Neural Machine Learning Postdoctoral Researcher

What You Will Do

Come join the brightest minds at the most innovative R&D facility supporting our national security! The Computer, Computational, and Statistical Sciences Division at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is seeking an outstanding postdoctoral researcher to work both independently and in a team environment on the development and implementation of advanced novel computing algorithms for foundational AI implemented on neuromorphic processors. Our group is working to identify and develop neuromorphic mechanisms to use for implementing AI/ML algorithms and protocols. We are working to develop algorithms for implementation both in neuromorphic simulation environments and on-processor to benefit both LANL's scientific and national-security missions.

The successful candidate will be expected to identify areas of promise in neuromorphic computing, as well as develop event-based neuromorphic algorithms for exploiting neuromorphic computing technologies. You will additionally be expected to communicate research results through reports, presentations, and peer-reviewed publications.

LANL has a history of ground-breaking achievements in neuromorphic computing. You will have the opportunity to work with internationally recognized experts in the field

What You Need

Minimum Job Requirements:
  • Publications: Demonstrated research ability, as evidenced by publications, reports, presentations, awards, etc.
  • Communication: Excellent presentation, oral and written communication skills.
  • Technical Experience: Research experience in one or more of the fields of neural computing, neuromorphic computing, and computational neuroscience.


Education/Experience: Ph.D. in computer science, mathematics, physics, statistics, engineering, or a related discipline completed within the last 5 years. Applications from candidates who will earn their degree by the time of appointment are accepted.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Programming experience with neuronal microcodes.
  • Experience in AI/ML algorithms, such as attention heads/transformers, backpropagation, reinforcement learning, or other similar methodologies.
  • Strong programming experience with Python, demonstrated software engineering skills, and machine learning frameworks for neural networks.
  • Demonstrated experience in interdisciplinary science, especially in the areas mentioned above.

Note to Applicants:

The application package consists of a CV and a cover letter. In addition to applying online, applicants may email their CV and cover letter to Andrew Sornborger (sornborg@lanl.gov) and Ben Migliori (ben.migliori@lanl.gov). All individuals who meet the education and minimum job requirements are encouraged to apply.

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:

Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of 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)
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. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as 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, state, and local 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 (505)-664-6947 opt. 3.