Synthetic Organic Chemistry Postdoc
- Req. Number: IRC139813
- Organization : Synthetic Organic Chemistry Postdoc/ Q-5
- City, State: Los Alamos, New Mexico
The High Explosives Science and Technology group (Q-5) at Los Alamos National Laboratory is seeking a motivated synthetic organic chemist to synthesize energetic materials. Primary research focus will be on the development of new molecule discovery through functionalization of boron clusters and small organic molecules. This will involve the synthesis of known and novel compounds and characterization using a variety of physical and analytical techniques. The postdoctoral term is two years, with the possibility of a third-year extension and a start date between August and October 2025. Conversion to permanent staff member is possible upon successful completion of the appointment.
The selected applicant should be familiar with analytical techniques, namely FTIR, 1H, and 13C{1H} NMR spectroscopies, HPLC, and mass spectrometry. Experience with a variety of synthetic techniques as well as crystallization of X-ray quality crystals will be beneficial. Collaboration with other experimental and theoretical chemists is expected. This work may lead to the potential for both publications in chemical journals as well as applications in projects with national security missions. Application reviews will begin August 1 and continue until this position is filled (TBD). Interested applicants should submit a single PDF file that includes:
- Cover letter clearly addressing all Minimum Job Requirements and all Desired Qualifications listed below (maximum 2 pages)
- Current CV including publications (maximum 2 pages, excluding publications)
- Summary of your current and recent research projects. Figures, tables, and/or schemes are encouraged (maximum 3 pages)
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
Applicants should clearly address each of the following requirements in their cover letter:
- Q clearance: The selected applicant will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements, which requires U.S. citizenship
- Experience in organic chemistry including following literature procedures and analyzing materials via infrared, 1H, and 13C{1H} NMR spectroscopies, HPLC, and mass spectrometry
- willingness to learn and practice the safe handling of energetic materials in a rigorous safety environment
- Effective oral and written communication skills
Education/Experience: Applicant must have a Ph.D. in organic chemistry or related field. The selected applicant must have completed all Ph.D. requirements by commencement of the appointment and be within five years of completion of the Ph.D.
Desired Qualifications:
Applicants should clearly address each of the following qualifications in their cover letter:
- Experience in novel synthetic organic chemistry
- Experience in boron chemistry and crystallization
- Experience with the safe handling of reactive materials
This position will be physically located in Los Alamos, New Mexico.
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
Note to Applicants:
Interested applicants should submit a single PDF file that includes:
- Cover letter clearly addressing all Minimum Job Requirements and all Desired Qualifications (maximum 2 pages)
- Current CV including publications (maximum 2 pages, excluding publications)
- Summary of your current and recent research projects. Figures, tables, and schemes are encouraged (maximum 3 pages)
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
Los Alamos National Laboratory is located in the foothills of the Jemez mountains in northern New Mexico and has access to plenty of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, skiing, rock-climbing, mountain biking, and horse riding. Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Position highlights include: Competitive salary: $92,000 - $106,000, based on experience
- 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)
- Potential for conversion to permanent staff member upon successful completion of the postdoctoral appointment
- 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.