T​/Nuclear and Particle Physics, Astrophysics and Cosmology; R&D Manager

What You Will Do

The Nuclear and Particle Physics, Astrophysics, and Cosmology (NPAC) Group in the Theoretical Division provides leadership on theoretical and applied nuclear physics, particle physics, plasma astrophysics, planetary formation, and their intersections. The group has a budget of approximately $25M and includes about 20 staff scientists and 15 postdoctoral fellows, and provides laboratory, national and international leadership in NPAC science.

As Group Leader you will develop and maintain a strong and diverse scientific effort in NPAC theory, recruit outstanding scientists to LANL, and develop opportunities to support the science. The group is funded in large part by DOE applied programs, Office of Science, NASA, and laboratory LDRD.

The group maintains strong ties with LANL, national, and international experimental NPAC science, including basic science such as medium‑energy and heavy‑ion research, neutrino physics, neutrinoless double beta decay, fundamental physics with neutrons, and nuclear data and applied nuclear science. The group also conducts computational science in lattice QCD, nuclear structure and reactions, astrophysics, space physics, planet formation, and quantum computing.

Group Leader responsibilities include managing the group, working with division management, fostering scientific interactions within LANL, recruiting and developing outstanding talent, creating new research opportunities, guiding graduate students, postdocs, and staff, and conducting an active research program for about 50% of the time.

• Demonstrated expertise and record of accomplishment in one or more of the research areas described above; the ability to contribute technically to one or more group projects, and the ability to develop programs in associated technical areas.
• Effective and successful leadership experience, preferably in a scientific or technical team, group, or project setting.
• Experience recruiting, mentoring, supervising, and facilitating the technical work of scientific researchers at all levels.
• Effective communication skills, including the ability to engage in technical conversations across disciplines, discuss program strategies with sponsors, delegate tasks to staff and administrators, and interact with all levels of laboratory management.

Position requires a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and eight years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Research experience in theoretical or computational nuclear, particle physics, astrophysics and cosmology, or closely related fields is strongly preferred.

• Experience building collaborative relationships across group, division, laboratory, and national boundaries.
• Experience proposing, developing, and sustaining research programs.
• Demonstrated record of recruitment and mentoring of excellent scientists.
• Active Q Clearance.

This position may require 24/7 coverage, which could involve working a shift or weekend schedule. Employees may be eligible for shift differential pay when assigned by their manager.

Onsite location in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.

• Medical insurance (PPO or high deductible) with a nationwide network.
• Dental and vision insurance.
• Basic life and disability insurance.
• Paid childbirth and parental leave.
• Award-winning 401(k) with 6% matching and 3.5% annual contributions.
• Learning opportunities and tuition assistance.
• Flexible schedules and time off.
• Onsite gyms and wellness programs.
• Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50-mile radius).

Position requires a Q clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship. Clearance is obtained through a background investigation conducted by the Federal Government.

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

To request an accommodation, email applyhelp or call .