Radiochemistry Postdoc

What You Will Do

The Nuclear & Radiochemistry Group (C-) has postdoctoral positions available in the chemical sciences. We are seeking an outstanding candidate with extensive experience in inorganic/analytical chemistry, geochemistry, or a related field to support R&D programs focused on separations, chemical analysis and radio chemical measurements. Candidates will develop new inorganic separations for the chemical and radio chemical purification of single elements. Novel methods for measuring purified radioisotopes and stable elements will be a key component of the research, and measurements may involve mass spectrometry, gamma‑ray spectrometry, beta decay counting, and/or alpha spectrometry.

The methods have applications in nuclear forensics, environmental studies related to fate and transport of radioactive isotopes, and stewardship of the US nuclear weapons deterrent. Candidates must be willing and able to work within an interdisciplinary team of scientists from multiple organizations within LANL. Opportunities are available to work with samples across a wide range of activity levels, from non‑radioactive samples through tracer activities to irradiated actinide target materials.

• A strong background and extensive experience in chemistry or mass spectrometry is essential.
• The candidate must have the ability to work creatively and independently, while also contributing effectively to the overall team efforts.
• Demonstrated excellence in written and oral communication skills, as evidenced by a strong publication and presentation record.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and with minimum supervision.
• Demonstrated ability to plan and organize assignments so that schedules are met on time.
• Ability to obtain a 'Q' clearance.

• Experience with standard wet‑chemistry techniques for chemical analysis.
• Rigorous chemical analysis using spectroscopic, analytical and/or radio analytical techniques.
• Track record of problem solving in a laboratory environment.

Education:

PhD in chemistry, geochemistry or related fields completed within the past five years or soon to be completed.

Work Location:

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

Appropriate training will be provided for a suitable candidate if they have no prior experience working with radioactive materials, or radio analytical measurements.

Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China—including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau—as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents, 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.

Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security.

Our generous benefits package includes:

• PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
• Dental and vision insurance
• Free basic life and disability insurance
• Paid childbirth and parental leave
• Award‑winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
• Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
• Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
• Onsite gyms and wellness programs
• Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)

Directive 206.2 – Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.

Q (Position will be cleared to this level). Selected applicants will be subject to a…