Plasma Physics Senior Scientist (Scientist 3/4)
- Req. Number: IRC141198
- Organization : XCP-6/Plasma Theory and Applications
- City, State: Los Alamos, New Mexico
- Recruiter Name: Nyenhuis, Niko Alexander
- Recruiter Email: nnyenhuis@lanl.gov
What You Will Do
This position will be filled at either the Scientist 3 or Scientist 4 level, depending on the skills and achievements of the selected candidate. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level.
Scientist 3 $125,200 - $211,300
The Plasma Theory and Applications Group (XCP-6) at the Los Alamos National Laboratory is looking for an experienced Scientist in High Energy Density Physics. You would be expected to contribute to teams that apply and develop theoretical and computational physics tools (including those that are AI/ML-based) to model plasmas. Areas of particular interest include high energy density physics; turbulence and/or perturbed plasma flows; and algorithm and model development for plasmas and high energy density science. You will also be expected to mentor and guide the work of early-career scientists and postdoctoral fellows. This research may lead to the design, fielding, and analysis of ICF/HED experiments on the Omega lasers at the Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE), the National Ignition Facility (NIF), or on the Z pulsed-power facility. Your work would be expected to lead to peer-reviewed publications, as well as to support the national-security programs and mission of the Laboratory.
Scientist 4 $150,300 - $260,800
In addition to what was outlined at the Scientist 3 level, Scientist 4 candidates are expected to develop and execute on a scientific vision by leading teams related to the areas listed above. It is also expected that scientists at this level will play an important role in recruiting and present the research of the team to diverse audiences.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
Technical Background
A strong background in theoretical and/or computational plasma physics with demonstrated ability to apply advanced physics principles, mathematical methods, and computational tools to complex plasma science problems.
Simulations/Experiments
Thorough experience in target design and demonstrated ability to collaborate within teams performing experiments. Experience in analysis of experimental data and interpretation of experiments. Alternately experience in plasma physics related model development for improving experimental design.
Journals/Conferences
A record of published research in peer-reviewed journals or conference proceedings. Demonstrated ability to communicate research to an interdisciplinary audience orally and in writing.
Achievement
A record of achievement in any of the following: thermonuclear burn physics, MHD, plasma physics (theory, simulation, code development), plasma transport and turbulence, or kinetic plasma effects.
Mentoring
Proven ability to mentor and guide early-career scientists, graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows, including providing regular feedback, supporting professional development, and fostering a collaborative research environment. Demonstrated track record of successfully developing others' scientific skills, independence, and career progression.
Additional Job Requirements for Scientist 4 position:
In addition to the requirements outlined above, qualification at the Scientist 4 level requires:
Advanced Experience in target design and demonstrated ability to lead and guide cross-disciplinary teams. Advanced Experience in analysis of experimental data and interpretation of experiments, across a diverse set of experiments.
Education/Experience at Scientist 3 level: Position requires a Master's degree in a STEM field from an accredited college or university and 6 years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation. PhD in physics, engineering, mathematics, or a related field.
Education/Experience at Scientist 4 level: 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:
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:
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.
Applicants must apply online. The application package should include a CV and a cover letter that addresses each of the required and any of the desired job requirements. Your letter and CV should provide contact information for 3 or 4 references who are familiar with your qualifications as related to this job. Applicants with questions may contact Radha Bahukutumbi, radha@lanl.gov. Anyone who meets the required qualifications is encouraged to apply. This position qualifies for benefits including vacation, medical, sick time, parental leave, and retirement.
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.
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. 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.
This position will be filled at either the Scientist 3 or Scientist 4 level, depending on the skills and achievements of the selected candidate. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level.
Scientist 3 $125,200 - $211,300
The Plasma Theory and Applications Group (XCP-6) at the Los Alamos National Laboratory is looking for an experienced Scientist in High Energy Density Physics. You would be expected to contribute to teams that apply and develop theoretical and computational physics tools (including those that are AI/ML-based) to model plasmas. Areas of particular interest include high energy density physics; turbulence and/or perturbed plasma flows; and algorithm and model development for plasmas and high energy density science. You will also be expected to mentor and guide the work of early-career scientists and postdoctoral fellows. This research may lead to the design, fielding, and analysis of ICF/HED experiments on the Omega lasers at the Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE), the National Ignition Facility (NIF), or on the Z pulsed-power facility. Your work would be expected to lead to peer-reviewed publications, as well as to support the national-security programs and mission of the Laboratory.
Scientist 4 $150,300 - $260,800
In addition to what was outlined at the Scientist 3 level, Scientist 4 candidates are expected to develop and execute on a scientific vision by leading teams related to the areas listed above. It is also expected that scientists at this level will play an important role in recruiting and present the research of the team to diverse audiences.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
Technical Background
A strong background in theoretical and/or computational plasma physics with demonstrated ability to apply advanced physics principles, mathematical methods, and computational tools to complex plasma science problems.
Simulations/Experiments
Thorough experience in target design and demonstrated ability to collaborate within teams performing experiments. Experience in analysis of experimental data and interpretation of experiments. Alternately experience in plasma physics related model development for improving experimental design.
Journals/Conferences
A record of published research in peer-reviewed journals or conference proceedings. Demonstrated ability to communicate research to an interdisciplinary audience orally and in writing.
Achievement
A record of achievement in any of the following: thermonuclear burn physics, MHD, plasma physics (theory, simulation, code development), plasma transport and turbulence, or kinetic plasma effects.
Mentoring
Proven ability to mentor and guide early-career scientists, graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows, including providing regular feedback, supporting professional development, and fostering a collaborative research environment. Demonstrated track record of successfully developing others' scientific skills, independence, and career progression.
Additional Job Requirements for Scientist 4 position:
In addition to the requirements outlined above, qualification at the Scientist 4 level requires:
Advanced Experience in target design and demonstrated ability to lead and guide cross-disciplinary teams. Advanced Experience in analysis of experimental data and interpretation of experiments, across a diverse set of experiments.
Education/Experience at Scientist 3 level: Position requires a Master's degree in a STEM field from an accredited college or university and 6 years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation. PhD in physics, engineering, mathematics, or a related field.
Education/Experience at Scientist 4 level: 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:
- PhD in physics, engineering, mathematics, or a related field
- Practical experience in the usage of AI/ML tools for experimental design and 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.
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:
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.
Applicants must apply online. The application package should include a CV and a cover letter that addresses each of the required and any of the desired job requirements. Your letter and CV should provide contact information for 3 or 4 references who are familiar with your qualifications as related to this job. Applicants with questions may contact Radha Bahukutumbi, radha@lanl.gov. Anyone who meets the required qualifications is encouraged to apply. This position qualifies for benefits including vacation, medical, sick time, parental leave, and retirement.
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.
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. 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.
