Physical Sciences Post-Baccalaureate; Postbac Student

What You Will Do

You will perform high‑impact research at one of the world’s most prestigious multidisciplinary research institutions supporting our national security mission. The Integrated Design and Assessment group in the Theoretical Design division seeks motivated candidates for a three‑month Post‑Baccalaureate Student appointment to verify LANL’s charged particle transport simulation capability. The project extends prior verification work by developing additional analytic test problems, refining code capabilities, and creating comparison problems that demonstrate correct code behavior for complex scenarios.

Out‑of‑year presentation and close‑out memo are required, with opportunities to present at conferences and publish in journals.

• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent) to meet LANL graduate research assistant requirements.
• Limited‑term, full‑time status for no more than three months, with no overlap with other LANL‑funded subcontract commitments.
• Remote appointment, with at least one onsite visit for final project presentation.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in a professional scientific context.
• Proficiency in Linux, Mac/Windows, Python, Fortran/C++, and other scripting languages; experience with AI/ML in a security‑mindful environment is a plus.
• Team‑oriented attitude with the ability to work independently.

Awarded a bachelor’s degree in a STEM related field from an accredited institution with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 within the last three years.

• Experience with verification of charged particle transport.
• Demonstrated programming skills for scientific data acquisition or analysis.
• Exposure to and interest in plasma physics and inertial confinement fusion.
• Undergraduate degree in a physical science is preferred.

The position offers potential for remote work (greater than 2 hours from the Laboratory). Onsite presence may be required periodically. All work locations are at management’s discretion.

Due to federal restrictions within the National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People’s Republic of China (including Hong Kong and Macau), the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, and the Russian Federation who are not lawful permanent residents are prohibited from accessing facilities supporting national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production. Applicants must attach a resume, cover letter, and most recent transcripts.

Failure to submit all three documents will result in disqualification.

Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science. Our benefits package includes:

• PPO or high‑deductible medical insurance with a 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 paid time off (PTO and holidays).
• Onsite gyms and wellness programs.
• Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50‑mile radius).

Employment requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating suitability under Supplemental Directive 206.2 for U.S. citizens; foreign nationals are subject to similar DOE orders.

The position does not require a security clearance. Selected candidates will undergo drug testing and other pre‑employment background checks.

The Laboratory requires applicants to complete a new‑employment drug test and maintains a substance‑abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Positive marijuana tests will result in termination, regardless of pre‑offer usage.

Regular appointment employees who have completed the required continuous service period may apply. Those who have not may apply with documented approval of their division leader.

Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, regardless of 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 applicable laws. The Laboratory is committed to making the workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations upon request.