Dislocation Analysis Computational Materials Science - Postdoctoral Researcher

Company Description

Join us and make YOUR mark on the World!

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) has turned bold ideas into world‑changing impact advancing science and technology to strengthen U.S. security and promote global stability.

Our mission spans four critical national security areas nuclear deterrence, threat preparedness, energy security, and multi‑domain defense empowering teams to take on the toughest challenges of today and tomorrow. With a culture built on innovation and operational excellence, LLNL is a place where your expertise can make a real impact.

We have an opening for a Postdoctoral Researcher in the field of modeling of X‑ray scattering for dislocation analysis in metals. You will be an integral member of an interdisciplinary team responsible for conducting and supporting research to model and simulate interactions between high‑energy X‑rays and crystalline defects in advanced metallic alloy materials. This role includes performing simulations of dislocation networks under various conditions, developing models of X‑ray scattering associated with these microstructures, and developing new methods to quantitatively interpret experimental data.

This position is in the Metallurgy and Advanced Microscopy group within the Materials Science Division.

• Develop and validate a multiscale simulation framework for virtual X‑ray diffraction in plastically deformed alloys.
• Implement the framework in parallel simulation codes intended to run on LLNL supercomputers.
• Design and conduct complex molecular and dislocation dynamic simulations to investigate deformation mechanisms in FCC and BCC alloys.
• Develop a machine‑learning based methodology to perform dislocation analysis from high energy X‑ray diffraction patterns.
• Develop and present written analyses and verbal briefings that capture and communicate research results as well as periodic progress reports.
• Publish research results in peer‑reviewed scientific or technical journals and present results at external conferences, seminars and/or technical meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• PhD in Materials Science, Condensed Matter Physics, Nuclear Engineering, Computational Science, Applied Math, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated experience in atomistic and/or dislocation simulation methods (e.g., Molecular Dynamics, Dislocation Dynamics, Crystal Plasticity)
• Ability to independently develop massively parallelized codes using C/C++/Python and proficiency in high‑performance computing environments.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills as reflected in effective presentations at meetings and a demonstrated strong publication record.
• Initiative and interpersonal skills with desire and ability to work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.

• Experience with multiscale modeling frameworks and integration of multiple simulation methods.
• Familiarity with synchrotron high energy X‑ray diffraction experiments and/or theory.
• Experience in the design of algorithms, development of simulation codes, and their implementation and validation.
• Familiarity with data‑driven and machine‑learning methods.

$123,048 Annually

This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting; pay will not be below any applicable local minimum wage. An employee’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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 time of hire date.

• Included in 2026 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
• Flexible Benefits Package
• 401(k)
• Relocation Assistance
• Education…