Scientist, Research Scientist

This position is open for external candidates only to apply.

Join Los Alamos National Laboratory’s elite Shock and Detonation Physics Team (M-9) and conduct groundbreaking research using some of the world’s most powerful experimental platforms. We are seeking outstanding candidates for an R&D Scientist 2 position with a Summer 2026 start date. The R&D Scientist 2 will perform independent research in the broad field of experimental shock physics. Experience in equations-of-state, phase transformations, time‑resolved diagnostics, dynamic compaction, high‑rate mechanics, strength, spall, or damage is relevant to this position.

Applicants are expected to contribute to independent research and publish experimental results in reports and peer‑reviewed publications. The individual will have opportunities to perform research using a diverse set of platforms including those at LANL’s Dynamic Equation of State facility with several gas and powder guns, at X‑ray user facilities such as the Dynamic Compression Sector at Argonne National Laboratory, and at Sandia’s Z‑machine.

Advancing diagnostic capabilities is also part of this job, and there are opportunities to collaborate across the laboratory and more broadly in the shock physics community on optical velocimetry and spectroscopies, temperature diagnostics, X‑ray techniques and proton radiography. Research focuses on elucidating intrinsic mechanisms connecting material properties with dynamic performance. This position requires a candidate who can advance fundamental science while also providing data relevant to Weapons programs.

• Demonstrated experience with experimental shock physics, high‑rate material behavior, or time‑resolved diagnostics.
• Experience with at least one dynamic material testing platform (gas guns, high explosives, pulsed power, laser drives, Kolsky bar, etc).
• Demonstrated ability to conduct research documented through published results in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Effective written and communication skills with diverse collaborators and audiences.
• Proven ability to design, execute, and analyze independent experimental research.
• Proven ability to work independently and in a team environment on multidisciplinary research projects.

The position requires a Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field from an accredited college and university and 4 years of related experience.

• Ph.D. in physics, mechanical or aerospace engineering, materials science or related science or engineering degree plus postdoctoral experience is strongly preferred.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Research experience in shock physics, high‑pressure science, condensed matter physics, materials science, high‑rate mechanics, and/or time‑resolved measurements of materials properties.
• Experience with laser‑based or X‑ray diagnostics.
• Prior post‑doctoral or job experience in the topics described.

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

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 (“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.

• Regular travel to scientific conferences, beamline experiments, and programmatic scientific exchanges is expected
• A Q‑clearance will be required
• Please include CV and separate cover letter describing your experiences relevant to the position

All standard LANL work schedules are available, with 9/80 (every other Friday off) being the most common.

Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los…