National Security Engineering Division - Space Hardware Postdoctoral Researcher

National Security Engineering Division - Space Hardware Postdoctoral Researcher

Join Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) where our employees apply their expertise to create solutions for big ideas that make our world a better place. Our culture values individuals, talents, partnerships, ideas, experiences, and different perspectives.

Pay Range: $117,900 - $135,060 Annually.

We have an opening for a Space Hardware Postdoctoral Researcher to conduct research in the areas of structural mechanics and engineering design of advanced materials for space applications. The researcher will contribute to cutting‑edge research focused on developing the next generation of large‑aperture optical space payloads, with a focus on novel structures, mechanisms, and advanced materials. This position requires full‑time on‑site presence.

• Conduct fundamental research in structural dynamics of novel materials for space payload applications.
• Develop custom structural and dynamic finite element simulations.
• Research and advise the Space Hardware group on research direction for novel materials.
• Contribute to the conception, design and execution of experiments related to novel material development and characterization.
• Support lab experiments to test and characterize mechanical response of novel materials for space applications.
• Communicate and collaborate with engineers, scientists and physicists supporting space payload development.
• Develop new computational tools for high performance computing studies.
• Support proposal development for the Space Hardware group.
• Design research plans, generate and analyze results, publish findings in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Present research outcomes at conferences, seminars, and technical meetings.
• Contribute to technical reports for sponsors and stakeholders.
• Travel as needed to coordinate with research collaborators and visit field sites.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance which requires U.S. citizenship.
• PhD in a related field (physical science, engineering, or applied mathematics discipline).
• Experience designing complex mechanical devices, accounting for material choices, thermal management, and preferably, optical performance.
• Experience developing innovative solutions to scientific and technical problems.
• Ability to perform independent and original research and communicate findings through publication of journal articles and presentations at seminars and scientific meetings.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills and demonstrated leadership skills to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Ability to travel.

• Experience in mathematical modeling of material interactions in harsh environments.
• Demonstrated understanding of the requirements of space‑bound mechanical components and mechanisms.
• Demonstrated understanding of the effects of radiation on space electronics and how to use novel material approaches to provide appropriate shielding.

This is a Postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of extension to a maximum of three years, open to those who have been awarded a PhD at the time of hire.

• Included in 2025 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
• Flexible Benefits Package
• 401(k)
• Relocation Assistance
• Education Reimbursement Program
• Flexible schedules (
  * depending on project needs)

This position requires a Department of Energy (DOE) Q-level clearance. DOE will initiate a federal background investigation. All L or Q cleared employees are subject to random drug testing.

External applicants selected for this position must pass a post‑offer, pre‑employment drug test, including testing for use of marijuana as federal law applies to us as a federal contractor.

We are an equal‑opportunity employer that is committed to providing all with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status, age, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.

If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please use our online form to submit a request.

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