Graduate Student in Physics and Chemistry of Materials
Listed on 2026-06-22
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Research/Development
Research Scientist
What You Will Do
We are seeking graduate students with an undergraduate degree in physics, chemistry, computer science or materials science to join one of our research teams. We are looking for candidates to join our team in Los Alamos National Laboratory's Theoretical Division (T-Division), in the T-1 group. T-Division provides a unique and engaging environment that fosters multi-disciplinary collaborations to support the laboratory's strategic basic research and national security missions.
The Physics and Chemistry of Materials group (T-1) seeks to understand how basic forces operating at the atomic level manifest themselves in the properties of matter at the macroscopic level. The group maintains theory, modeling and simulation capabilities in a broad set of materials-related areas. Current activities in the group include research in atoms, molecules, solids, liquids, gases, and plasmas.
Our goal is to provide innovative and creative solutions needed to solve technical problems across the Laboratory's missions, including energy security, stockpile readiness, and global threat reduction. You will work on a research project with a staff scientist mentor and co-mentor in one of the aforementioned areas. The position is expected to begin typically in the summer, but it can begin anytime during the year.
You Need
Minimum
Job Requirements:
- Currently enrolled in an accredited graduate degree program in any Engineering, Physics, or other STEM disciplines.
- Must be enrolled in at least 6 semester credit hours (or full-time equivalent).
- Must currently have and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent)
Desired
Qualifications:
- Experience with conducting scientific research
- Demonstrated ability to communicate (verbal and written) well in a professional scientific context. Computer programming (Python, C++, etc.) in support of scientific or engineering applications;
- Application of advanced mathematical methods to develop models of physical phenomena;
- Familiarity with computational research in applications such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and quantum computing;
The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.
Note to Applicants:
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.
You Will Work
Located in Northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. LANL enhances national security by ensuring the safety and reliability of the U.S. nuclear stockpile, developing technologies to reduce threats from weapons of mass destruction, and solving problems related to energy, environment, infrastructure, health, and global security concerns.
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 mil
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.
No Clearance:
Position does not require a security clearance. Selected candidates will be subject to drug testing and other pre-employment background checks.
The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.
Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they…
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