Job Information
Los Alamos National Laboratory Postdoctoral Research Associate in Proteomics (LC-MS/MS) in Los Alamos, New Mexico
What You Will Do
Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) Bioscience Division, Biochemistry and Biotechnology Group (B-TEK) is seeking a proteomics-focused Postdoctoral Research Associate to design, execute, and improve large-scale proteomics pipelines. This role emphasizes high-throughput LC-MS/MS proteomics from sample preparation through quantitative/qualitative analysis and bioinformatics, with a strong focus on rigorous quality control to ensure defensible results across mission-relevant studies. You will work in a highly collaborative environment with access to multiple high-resolution Orbitrap platforms and high-performance computing resources. The position includes opportunities to publish in high-impact journals and present at conferences.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
Design and execute LC-MS/MS proteomics experiments (DDA and/or DIA) including sample
preparation, acquisition, and downstream analysis.
Develop and/or refine quantitative proteomics workflows with and without isobaric labeling, as
appropriate to the study design.
Implement, track, and document QC standards (reference, quantitative, process control, and
system-performance controls) across studies.
Integrate proteomics results with biological context and complementary measurements; contribute
to multi-omics efforts when relevant.
Communicate results through peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, and conference
presentations.
What You Need
Minimum Qualifications
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 large-scale proteomics studies and quantitative LC-MS/MS data
analysis.
Experience with DDA/DIA, spectral library approaches, and/or advanced analysis modalities (e.g., de novo or top-down) is a plus.
Experience establishing QC methods addressing background, extraction efficiency, precision, reproducibility, and standards/sample pools.
Familiarity with common proteomics software ecosystems (e.g., Proteome Discoverer, Perseus, MaxQuant, or similar).
Experience with automation/robotics for sample preparation is a plus.
Required Application Materials
Current resume/CV
Current official transcripts
Cover letter/personal statement of interest, not to exceed one page
Note to Applicants:
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of thePeople's Republic of China, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of NorthKorea, 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.
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.
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.