Data Scientist Nuclear Power Postdoctoral Researcher

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Data Science

The Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is seeking a well-qualified Postdoctoral Research Associate in Data Science for the Department of Plant Optimization. The ideal candidate should possess a robust technical background and practical experience with large language models (LLMs).

• Develop, fine‑tune, and optimize LLMs.
• Design and implement efficient retrieval‑augmented generation systems.
• Create advanced prompt engineering strategies to enhance model performance and utility.
• Demonstrate expertise in embedding techniques, with a clear understanding of their strengths, weaknesses, and applicability to various use cases.
• Perform comprehensive data preprocessing, including cleaning, normalization, and integration of diverse data types such as text, images, and tabular data.
• Analyze and structure complex datasets, including unstructured data types such as images and tables.
• Apply advanced AI model optimization techniques to improve the efficiency and performance of large and frontier models for specific applications.
• Understand the principles and trade‑offs associated with large‑scale machine learning systems.
• Develop agentic AI systems including multi‑modal models.
• Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with management, co‑workers, and customers.
• Publish research results in a mix of journal publications and conference proceedings.
• Write or contribute to the writing of technical reports.
• Prepare competitive proposals for the DOE or internal INL funding opportunities.
• Give technical presentations to internal and external audiences.

Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our Research and Education Campus in Idaho Falls, , with every other Friday off. The position requires a strong ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary R&D team.

• PhD in Data Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence or comparable disciplines, completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years.
• Experience in data science, data analysis, and software development using Python, C#, Java or C++.
• Demonstrated oral and written communication skills in English.
• Must be a US citizen or a US Green Card holder (position is subject to export control restrictions).

• Experience in distributed processing frameworks and high-performance computing resources to build and deploy scalable AI solutions.
• Experience in model optimization and deployment on NVIDIA and AMD GPUs, ensuring efficient utilization of computational resources.
• Experience in computer vision or time-series data analytics, including practical applications in real-world scenarios.
• Experience with vision-language models and large behavioral models.
• Knowledge of data architecture, data structuring, and best practices for managing large-scale data pipelines.
• Familiarity with nuclear engineering concepts, including nuclear reactors and associated data.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.

Frequent standing, walking, sitting, stooping, kneeling, and bending are required. The job requires hand/finger dexterity to type, handle materials, manipulate tools, and reach with hands and arms. Occasionally, lifting or moving up to 25 pounds may be necessary. Adequate visual acuity and hearing capacity are required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Pay: $105,144 annually. Compensation is determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package
• Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.

The Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of INL to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.