Postdoctoral Research Associate in large scale biomolecular simulations in Theoretical Division | Los Alamos, NM | Los Alamos National Laboratory

Postdoctoral Research Associate in large scale biomolecular simulations in Theoretical Division

What You Will Do

Are you ready to push the boundaries of large-scale biomolecular simulation on some of the world's fastest supercomputers?

The Theoretical Biology and Biophysics Group at Los Alamos National Laboratory is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join an interdisciplinary team developing innovative techniques for simulating complex biological systems at scale. This position provides an exceptional opportunity to leverage LANL's world-class high-performance computing platforms to explore the structural dynamics of large macromolecular assemblies, such as RNA-protein complexes, ribosomes, and biomolecular machines.

The successful candidate will help develop and apply coarse-grained modeling strategies and multiscale simulation workflows that allow access to biologically relevant timescales and system sizes beyond the reach of traditional atomistic MD. You will work closely with researchers across disciplines to uncover new mechanistic insights into biomolecular processes and contribute to the development of novel computational tools.

At LANL, you'll have access to a unique combination of supercomputing resources, interdisciplinary collaborations, and a scientific culture that fosters both foundational research and mission-driven discovery.

The position provides access to world-class HPC systems, collaborative support from experts across disciplines, and the resources of a national laboratory with a deep tradition of scientific leadership. LANL fosters innovation and impact in an environment that blends basic research with national mission-driven science.

What You Need

Minimum Job Requirements:
  • Experience with MD packages (GROMACS, OpenMD)
  • Experience with LINUX
  • Extensive experience with high-performance computing environments
  • Experience with structural modeling and large macromolecular complexes
  • Demonstrated scientific productivity (e.g., peer-reviewed publications, open-source tools)
  • Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate across disciplines


Education/Experience: Ph.D. in Computational Biology, Chemistry, Biophysics, Physics, Computer Science, or a related field completed within the last five years or expected soon.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Familiarity with RNA modeling
  • Experience with coarse-grained modeling
  • Interest in integrating structural biology and cryo-EM
  • Commitment to collaborative, interdisciplinary research


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.

LANL is located in northern New Mexico in close proximity to Santa Fe and surrounded by hiking trails, ski resorts, and natural beauty. LANL is a leader in high performance computing and has a history of leadership in this area, dating back to one of the first supercomputers ever built. The Theoretical Division was first led by Hans Bethe and was home to Richard Feynmann for many years. The Theoretical Division offers an engaging research environment and a collaborative scientific community with a strong tradition in theory, modeling, and simulation.

Salary & Benefits
  • Salary range: $97,000 - $114,000, commensurate with experience
  • Excellent benefits package including health, dental, and retirement options

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.

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

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 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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