Synthetic Inorganic Chemistry Postdoc

What You Will Do

The Inorganic, Isotope and Actinide Chemistry (C‑IIAC) group is seeking an exceptional postdoctoral candidate to perform research in fundamental bonding studies of the f‑elements. The candidate will focus on syntheses of ligands and complexes with lanthanides and actinides, with substantial emphasis on neptunium and plutonium and some scope for americium chemistry. The position requires extensive screening, synthetic protocol optimization, and scaling of lanthanide/uranium chemistry before extending to transuranium elements.

• Extensive experience in synthetic inorganic chemistry with air‑ and moisture‑sensitive techniques (Schlenk, glovebox, solvent drying, ligand synthesis).
• Experience preparing and characterizing metal complexes.
• Strong communication skills, evidenced by publications and a cover letter, and independent problem solving.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a shared laboratory space, interfacing with experimental and computational colleagues to move results toward publication.
• Experience acquiring SC‑XRD and crystal structure solution/data refinement.

Education/

Experience:

A PhD in Chemistry is required. The candidate must have completed all Ph.D. requirements by commencement and be within five years of completion.

• Multi‑nuclear NMR, IR/Raman, UV/Vis/NIR spectroscopy, electrochemistry, and proficiency in chemical software.
• Willingness to handle radioactive materials in a rigorous safety environment; prior experience beneficial but not required.
• Highly self‑motivated to drive research independently with creative ideas, alongside mentor priorities.

Work Location:

Onsite, Los Alamos, NM.

Note to Applicants:
Interested applicants must apply online and upload a cover letter and resume addressing experience and how it applies to this opening. Informal inquiries may be directed to Andrew Gaunt, gaunt.

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
• 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 suitability under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. This requirement applies only to U.S. citizens. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.

No Clearance:
This position does not require a security clearance. Selected candidates will be subject to drug testing and other pre‑employment background checks.

Equal Opportunity:
Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal‑opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories as defined by federal, state, and local laws. The Laboratory is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.