Materials Characterization and Simulation Graduate Research Assistant

What You Will Do

Conduct in‑situ X‑ray and neutron diffraction experiments on metallic and ceramic materials at large user facilities to map 3D crystallographic orientation and strain fields. Track microstructural features including dislocation density, lattice strain, and structural transformations during thermo‑mechanical loading. Integrate experimental data with molecular dynamics simulations to validate and interpret measurements. Develop forward models for scattering to generate physically consistent synthetic data for machine‑learning training, replacing traditional iterative analysis algorithms.

Apply data‑analysis and machine‑learning tools for data reconstruction and interpretation, and prepare and publish findings in technical reports and peer‑reviewed journals.

• Design and execute diffraction experiments at user facilities.
• Analyze and interpret complex diffraction data for materials characterization.
• Perform forward simulations of scattering experiments.
• Integrate experimental measurements with computational models and simulations.
• Apply data‑analysis and machine‑learning tools for data reconstruction and interpretation.
• Prepare and publish research findings in technical reports and peer‑reviewed journals.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams.
• Communicate technical results to specialist and non‑specialist audiences.
• Adapt experimental approaches to evolving research needs.
• Manage multiple projects and priorities in a dynamic research environment.

• Graduate student in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• Knowledge of diffraction and scattering principles and analysis techniques.
• Experience with computational materials‑science methods.
• Familiarity with machine‑learning applications in materials science.
• Ability to design and execute diffraction experiments at user facilities.
• Strong programming and data‑analysis skills.
• Effective communication skills, both technical and non‑technical.

• Expertise in X‑ray and/or neutron diffraction experiments and analysis techniques at synchrotron or neutron user facilities.
• Familiarity with molecular‑dynamics simulations or crystal plasticity modeling.
• Experience with machine‑learning techniques applied to materials‑science problems.
• Strong programming and data‑analysis skills with ability to integrate experimental measurements with computational models.

The work is located onsite in Los Alamos, NM. Hybrid options may be available on a case‑by‑case basis.

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

Position requires Q clearance and U.S. citizenship, except in very limited circumstances.

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 disability. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations upon request.