Design Physics - Postdoctoral Researcher

Design Physics - Postdoctoral Researcher

Entry Level | Full-time
Postdoctoral/Fellowship | Livermore, CA | 06/25/2026
Reference #: REF
8498B
Job Code: PDS.
1 Post-Dr Research Staff 1
Organization: Strategic Deterrence
Position Type: Post Doctoral
Security Clearance: Anticipated DOE Q clearance (requires U.S. citizenship and a federal background investigation)
Drug Test: Required for external applicant(s) selected for this position (includes testing for use of marijuana)
Medical Exam: A job-related pre-placement medical examination may be required

We have an opening for a Design Physics - Postdoctoral Researcher. We invite PhD graduates with expertise in computational and/or experimental physics (with an emphasis on dynamic behavior of materials) to apply for a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship. The successful candidate will work with simulation and experimental teams to design, model, conduct, and analyze data from ring and cylinder experiments on aluminum alloys under extreme loading conditions.

The work will examine how geometry, microstructure, internal defects, and shock-generated damage influence metal fracture and fragmentation. Additional responsibilities may include supporting proposal development, comparing aluminum grades, conducting sensitivity studies, calibrating material models, and interpreting experimental radiography and postmortem data. This position will be in the Strategic Deterrence Directorate.

Hybrid schedule may be available after a probationary period. The exact number of days required in the office can vary based on the needs of the team and organization.

You will

• Learn and apply LLNL-developed hydrodynamic code to assess loading conditions and predict material response in published experiments.
• Collaborate on the design, execution, and analysis of explosively driven ring experiments.
• Gain exposure to complex alloys, in addition to common engineering grades of aluminum and stainless steel.
• Collaborate with material strength and damage model developers to implement and evaluate various models for suitability.
• Help develop proposal concepts, figures, and supporting technical arguments.
• Develop new tools, algorithms, and/or design new experiments to further our scientific understanding.
• Conduct research using massively parallel computer platforms to solve scientific challenges.
• 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.

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE X-level security clearance (requires U.S. citizenship).
• PhD in a related physical science, engineering, materials science, or applied mathematics discipline.
• Significant accomplishments in numerical simulations and modeling, and/or the application of theoretical techniques.
• Experience developing innovative solutions to scientific and technical problems.
• Proficient verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment and present and explain technical information.

• Experience with computational mechanics, high strain rate behavior of metals, or dynamic failure modeling.
• Familiarity with fracture, damage evolution, fragmentation, or shock loading.
• Interest and enthusiasm for understanding the broader mission at LLNL and supporting it through experimental platform development.

$135,768 Annually

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.

We are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to providing 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.