Job Information
Los Alamos National Laboratory Postdoctoral Research Associate in MALDI Imaging Mass Spectrometry in Los Alamos, New Mexico
What You Will Do
Overview
Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) Bioscience Division, Biochemistry and Biotechnology Group (BTEK) is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to advance MALDI imaging mass spectrometry (IMS) methods and data workflows. This role focuses on spatially mapping biomolecules across diverse sample types and translating IMS data into actionable biological insight. The successful candidate will contribute to mission-driven research with national security applications (e.g., molecular signatures of radiation exposure and other biosecurity/bioenergy priorities). You will work in a highly collaborative environment with access to state-of-the-art high-resolution mass spectrometers (including multiple Orbitrap platforms) and robust high-performance computing resources. The position includes opportunities to publish in high-impact journals and present at conferences.
Key Responsibilities
Develop, optimize, and apply MALDI IMS sample-preparation and acquisition methods for targeted and discovery spatial analyses.
Build and/or improve IMS data processing, visualization, and interpretation pipelines, including spatial statistics where appropriate.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate IMS outputs with complementarymeasurements and biological context.
Implement and document quality control approaches appropriate for IMS studies (referencestandards, process controls, and system-performance checks).
Communicate results through peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, and conference presentations.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
• Ph.D. in a STEM field completed within the last five years (or expected by the start date).
• Strong peer-reviewed publication record commensurate with career stage.
• Demonstrated excellence in written and oral communication (e.g., manuscripts, reports,
presentations).
• Deep understanding of mass spectrometry fundamentals and -omics pipeline concepts.
• Hands-on experience spanning sample preparation, instrument operation/data acquisition, and data
analysis.
• Ability to obtain a DOE Q clearance (typically requires U.S. citizenship).
Desired Qualifications:
Demonstrated experience with MALDI IMS data processing, spatial visualization, and interpretation.
Experience developing reproducible computational workflows (e.g., scripting, version control,documented pipelines).
Familiarity with statistics and/or machine learning methods for robust molecular panelDevelopment.
Experience with multi-omics harmonization and integration is a plus.
Experience designing and executing QC plans (reference/quantitative/process/system-performancecontrols).
Essential Job Functions (can perform with or without reasonable accommodation):
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.
Work Schedule
This position is located in Los Alamos, NM. Candidates may work a 9/80 schedule at the discretion of management and in accordance with the Postdoc Program Resource Guide. Initial appointment is for two years; a third year may be possible based on performance and programmatic need. Exceptional candidates may be considered for LANL Director's Fellowships and named fellowships
Note to Applicants:
Required Application Materials
Current resume/CV
Current official transcripts
Cover letter/personal statement of interest, not to exceed one page
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 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 (https://int.lanl.gov/org/ddops/oma/prime-contract-management/applicable-directives/_assets/docs/DOE-O-206.2-Chg-2-LtdChg-Identity,-Credential,-and-Access-Management-ICAM-1.pdf) . 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.
No Clearance: 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.
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 (https://int.lanl.gov/policy/documents/P701.pdf) 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.
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