Job Information
Los Alamos National Laboratory Postdoctoral Research Associate in Los Alamos, New Mexico
What You Will Do
The Nuclear & Radiochemistry Group (C-NR) invites outstanding applicants to apply for a postdoctoral position in nuclear spectrometry and detection. We are seeking an outstanding candidate with extensive experience in experimental nuclear physics and radiation detection, or a related field to support R&D programs focused on radioisotope quantification measurements and nuclear data. Candidates will work within a team to develop new methods for measuring radioisotopes using gamma-ray spectrometry and beta decay counting, help advance coincidence counting and other advance spectroscopic techniques, lead efforts to reduce backgrounds and apply advanced computing towards spectral analysis. This research is to support work within the field of nuclear forensics, nuclear treaty monitoring, and stewardship of the US nuclear weapons deterrent. Candidates must be willing and able to work within an interdisciplinary team of scientists from multiple organizations within LANL.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
A strong background in gamma-ray spectrometry, detector development, or radiation detection physics is essential.
The candidate must have the ability to work creatively and independently, while also contributing effectively to the overall team efforts.
Demonstrated excellence in written and oral communication skills, as evidenced by a strong publication and presentation record.
Demonstrated ability to work independently and with minimum supervision.
Demonstrated ability to plan and organize assignments so that schedules are met on time.
Contribute to overall team missions by working collaboratively with other staff
Ability to obtain a 'Q' clearance.
Desired Qualifications:
Programming experience with C/C++, Python
AI/ML knowledge or experience
Detector/Experiment modeling using MCNP or GEANT4
Experience with digital data acquisition systems
Rigorous analysis using spectroscopic, analytical and/or radio analytical techniques.
Track record of problem solving in a laboratory environment
Education: PhD in nuclear physics, nuclear engineering, chemistry, or related fields completed within the past five years or soon to be completed.
Notes to Applicants
Along with a resume or CV, applicants should include a detailed cover letter explaining how they fulfil the job requirements and/or desired skills. Postdoctoral appointments are for a period of two years, with the possibility of a third-year extension. Appropriate training will be provided for a suitable candidate if they have no prior experience working hands-on with radioactive materials.
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.
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 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.
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 (https://www.directives.doe.gov/directives-documents/400-series/0472.2-border-a-chg1-ltdchg/@@images/file) 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.
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.