Nuclear Quantum Dynamics Postdoc Research Associate

What You Will Do

The Physics and Chemistry of Materials group (T‑1) in the Theoretical Division at Los Alamos National Laboratory seeks postdoctoral research associates to develop advanced quantum dynamics methods for nuclear quantum effects.

Successful candidates will join a multidisciplinary, multi‑institutional team with expertise spanning electronic structure, quantum dynamics, spectroscopies, computer science, and applied mathematics. The focus areas include:

• Developing scalable tensor network methods for simulating nuclear quantum dynamics in condensed phase.
• Advancing theoretical spectroscopic techniques by leveraging quantum information science.
• Designing high‑performance algorithms to enhance the efficiency and applicability of the developed methods.
• Demonstrating the impact of nuclear quantum effects in both model and realistic functional systems and linking theory with experiments to advance understanding of quantum‑driven chemical and energy transduction.

We provide unique opportunities for cross‑disciplinary and cross‑institutional collaborations, scientific workshop organization, and conference attendance.

• A Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or related physical sciences, completed within the last 5 years or to be completed soon.
• Programming experience in Fortran, C/C++, or Python.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting original scientific research through a peer‑reviewed publication record.
• Excellent communication and writing skills.

• Solid background in quantum dynamics, with experience in developing quantum or mixed quantum‑classical dynamic methods such as tensor network, multiple‑configuration time‑dependent Hartree, ab initio multiple cloning/spawning, etc.
• Experience with electronic structure methods (DFT, semi‑empirical, or post‑HF methods).
• Experience developing reduced‑scaling or massively parallel algorithms.
• Experience with HPC or GPU programming.
• The ability to work creatively and independently as well as collaboratively within a diverse, multidisciplinary team.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Adaptability to new research areas and project requirements.

Location:

Los Alamos, NM.

Appointment is for a duration of two years, with the possibility of a third‑year extension based on performance evaluation. Outstanding candidates may be considered for a Director’s Postdoc Fellowship or one of the prestigious Distinguished Postdoc Fellowships (Richard P. Feynman, Darleane Christian Hoffman, J. Robert Oppenheimer, or Frederick Reines).

• Medical insurance (PPO or high‑deductible) with a large nationwide network.
• Dental and vision insurance.
• Free basic life and disability insurance.
• Paid maternity and parental leave.
• 401(k) with matching and annual contributions.
• Learning opportunities and tuition assistance.
• Flexible schedules and paid time off.
• On‑site gyms and wellness programs.
• Relocation packages for moves beyond a 50‑mile radius.

Employment requires a favorable decision by the NNSA regarding Directive 206.2, applying to U.S. citizens. Foreign nationals are subject to DOE Order 142.3A. The position does not require a security clearance, but selected candidates will undergo drug testing and background checks.

Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal‑opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making the workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations upon request.