Experimental Quantum Materials Scientist; Scientist

What You Will Do

Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) has immediate openings for one or more scientifically outstanding and highly motivated experimental quantum materials scientists. The position is in the Quantum and Strongly Correlated Electrons Team (SCES Team), part of the Materials Physics and Applications Division’s Quantum Group (MPA‑Q). MPA‑Q focuses on the discovery, understanding, and exploitation of quantum phenomena in materials science, and the new scientist will be expected to carry out experiments in the laboratory or at user facilities, contribute to ongoing technical work, and develop and prepare proposals for new research initiatives.

The role involves collaborating with a multidisciplinary team that performs sample growth, transport and thermodynamic measurements, NMR, and measurements under extreme conditions (high pressure, high magnetic fields, low temperature) to explore new physics in correlated‑electron systems.

• Demonstrated record of technical excellence and achievement in studies of quantum materials, correlated‑electron materials, or a related field.
• Proficiency with experimental measurement techniques and understanding of state‑of‑the‑art experimental methods.
• Familiarity with relevant physical theory and data analysis.
• Ability to develop and lead high‑impact scientific projects from conception to publication.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, including scientific creativity and technical problem solving.
• Ability and inclination to contribute to a wide range of basic research and mission science programs as needs evolve.

Positions require a bachelor’s degree in a STEM field from an accredited college or university and four years of related experience, typically with post‑doctoral research at a university or national lab or equivalent experience. An advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) related to MPA‑Q research is preferred.

• Experience conducting experiments under extreme conditions (low temperature, high magnetic field, high pressure).
• Scientific understanding of or experience with f‑electron materials.
• Collaborative research experience within academia, industry, or government agencies.
• Postdoctoral research or similar experience.
• Ability to obtain a Q clearance, which typically requires U.S. citizenship.

The position is onsite in Los Alamos, NM. Working in the lab and in close proximity to other experimental researchers and labs, with flexibility for offsite work up to 20%.

• PPO or high deductible medical insurance with extensive nationwide network.
• Dental and vision insurance.
• Free basic life and disability insurance.
• Paid maternity and parental leave.
• Award‑winning 401(k) with 6% matching plus 3.5% annual contributions.
• 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).

No security clearance is required. Selected candidates will be subject to drug testing and other pre‑employment background checks. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre‑offer.

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, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws. We are committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations for those who request them.