Job Description
What You Will Do The Materials Science and Technology (MST-8) group at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position on the Scattering Science Team.
The Scattering Science Team specializes in using neutron and X-ray scattering and imaging to investigate the microstructural properties of materials under a range of conditions, from ambient to extreme environments. The team operates several neutron beamlines at the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center (LANSCE) and collaborates extensively with leading X-ray facilities such as the Advanced Photon Source (APS) and the Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source (CHESS). These techniques are leveraged to study critical material properties such as residual stress, density, phase distribution, and microstructural evolution, enabling new insights into materials relevant to national security and energy applications.
The successful candidate will focus on applying neutron and x-ray-based material characterization techniques to high explosive (HE) and polymer-bonded explosive (PBX) systems. This work will involve neutron-based material characterization of complex materials, with emphasis on developing and applying scattering and imaging techniques to study structure, interfaces, and microstructural evolution. Specific research directions may include probing buried HE-binder interfaces, quantifying microstructural changes, and investigating how interfacial properties evolve under thermal cycling, aging, and other environmental conditions. The postdoc will design and conduct experiments using advanced neutron scattering and imaging techniques available at LANSCE, complemented by X-ray and microscopy methods at other facilities, to improve understanding of interfacial and microstructural behavior in HE materials.
The successful candidate should have a strong publication record, an interdisciplinary research philosophy, and the ability to effectively communicate with researchers with varied backgrounds. As a postdoctoral research associate, you will be given the opportunity to publish results in high-impact peer-reviewed journals and to present at well-known conferences. The position is for two years, with a third year possible based on performance and funding.
What You Need Minimum Job Requirements:
- Demonstrated experience in neutron or X-ray scattering techniques
- Experimental background in thin-film deposition, interfacial characterization, or energetic materials
- Knowledge of radiation-matter interactions, with emphasis on neutrons and gammas.
- Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to conduct independent and collaborative research.
- Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals
Education/Experience:
A PhD in Physics, Materials Science, Nuclear Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field completed within the last five years.
Desired Qualifications:
- Experience with neutron reflectometry or grazing-incidence scattering
- Familiarity with thin-film growth methods (e.g., vapor deposition, spin coating) and structural/morphological characterization (AFM, SEM, XRD)
- Knowledge of polymer-bonded explosives (PBX) microstructure and degradation mechanisms.
- Background in analyzing interfacial phenomena, including adhesion, debonding, or dewetting
- Experience with data analysis tools for reflectometry and scattering experiments (e.g., fitting routines, modeling).
- Ability to adapt to new research requirements and learn new tools as needed.
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.
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
Position commitment: Regular appointment employees are required to serve a period of continuous service in their current position in order to be eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the time required, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. The position commitment for this position is 1 year or 2 years.
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 (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 . Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States.
Clearance: Q (Position may be cleared to this level). Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements* for access to classified matter. This position requires a Q clearance which requires US Citizenship except in extremely rare circumstances. Dependent upon position, additional authorization to access nuclear weapons information may be required that may or may not be available to dual citizens depending upon the circumstances.
*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. 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 for applicant eligibility requirements.
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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Job Tags
Permanent employment, For contractors, Relocation, Flexible hours,