Welding & Joining Postdoctoral Research Associate

What You Will Do

Join the Welding & Joining (W&J) team to advance welding technologies through state‑of‑the‑art computational modeling and experimental research. As a postdoctoral researcher, you will focus on developing and applying advanced process models using finite element analysis (FEA) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools to understand and optimize joining processes. Research opportunities also exist in experimental validation, advanced materials characterization, and data‑driven process optimization.

In this role, you will:

• Lead independent research projects in collaboration with your mentor and the W&J team
• Validate computational predictions through experimental testing and advanced characterization
• Develop innovative methods to solve complex manufacturing challenges
• Collaborate across Sigma Division and with external partners to advance welding and joining technologies
• Author technical papers for peer‑reviewed journals and present findings at national conferences
• Contribute to proposal development for future research and development opportunities
• Provide technical expertise in welding, joining, and metallurgical sciences to support LANL's mission

Our team supports diverse applications including high energy density welding (laser, electron beam), arc welding, brazing, and solid‑state joining. You will have access to state‑of‑the‑art experimental facilities to conduct world‑class research.

• Demonstrated background in fundamental or applied welding, joining, material science, process modeling, computer programming, or related fields.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate research through peer‑reviewed publications and conference presentations
• Evidence of successful collaboration in team‑based research environments
• Ability to obtain a Q clearance, which normally requires U.S. citizenship

Education/

Experience:

Ph.D.: in engineering, materials science, metallurgy, physics, or related field completed within the last five years or nearing completion.

• Experience with developing FEA and CFD models (Abaqus, COMSOL, and FLOW-3D) to simulate welding and additive manufacturing processes
• Experience with welding and joining processes including high-energy-density methods (laser beam welding, electron beam welding, laser/electron beam optics), arc welding (GTAW, GMAW), brazing, solid-state welding, or other joining methods are desired but not required
• Knowledge of welding metallurgy, solidification phenomena, or advanced metallurgical characterization techniques
• Experience with structural integrity aspects of welding and joining, such as residual stress measurement/prediction, fracture mechanics analysis, flaw sizing techniques, and/or distortion modeling
• Experience with data acquisition systems, sensor technologies, or motion control systems for welding or additive manufacturing equipment
• Programming experience with Python, MATLAB, or other languages applicable to data analysis and process modeling
• Experience with project management or leading collaborative research initiatives
• Familiarity with AI/ML applications in manufacturing or materials science

While computational modeling is the primary focus, candidates with complementary experimental or characterization expertise are encouraged to apply. Research projects will leverage your strengths and align with available opportunities and funding. We value diverse technical backgrounds and collaborative approaches to solving complex problems.

Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of 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.

The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion…