Postdoc: Shock Physics & Extreme- Materials

What You Will Do

The Shock & Detonation Physics Group (M-9) at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) has openings for multiple Postdoctoral Research Associates. Our work utilizes dynamic drivers (explosives, single- and two-stage gas guns, lasers) and static high pressures (diamond anvil cells, Paris-Edinburgh presses) to study fundamental physics and chemistry of relevance to the behavior of materials at extreme pressures and temperatures. We also perform experiments at synchrotron and free electron laser user facilities such as the Dynamic Compression Sector and the High Pressure Collaborative Access Team (HPCAT) at the Advance Photon Source, the Linac Coherent Light Source at SLAC, Sandia's Z-machine, DESY, and the European XFEL.

Our research informs multiscale models for equations of state used in the DOE's science-based stockpile modernization assessment. We seek outstanding internally motivated candidates interested in shock physics or detonation physics. Prior experience in high pressure research is desired, but less important than a solid background in experimentation, a strong intellectual curiosity, and meticulous laboratory skills.

Potential research areas include:

• Equations of state and detonation properties of high explosives
• Equations of state and phase changes of inert materials, such as polymers, foams, ceramics, and metals
• Novel measurements and diagnostic development capable of elucidating material properties under single event dynamic loading conditions

Minimum

Job Requirements:

Safety Practice

Demonstrated ability to work safely and productively in a fast-paced team setting with minimal supervision.

Experience in experimental scientific research and development

Communication

Excellent interpersonal skills, verbal and written communication skills, and experience interacting with personnel at all levels.

Ability to explain and present technical information, both verbally and in written form, to an audience with varied technical backgrounds.

Clearance

Ability to obtain and maintain a US Department of Energy (DOE) Q Clearance, which typically requires US citizenship.

Education/

Experience:

A Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Geology, or a closely-related field earned within 5 years of the anticipated start date.

Desired

Qualifications:

Technical Knowledge

• Experience with dynamic experiments or high-strain-rate mechanics
• Experience performing research on high explosive materials
• Experience as a user at facilities such as synchrotrons or XFELs
• Experience with velocimetry, high speed imaging, pyrometry, X-ray, or laser-based diagnostics.
• Experience using oscilloscopes and instrumentation to acquire short duration, single occurrence events

Systems & Tools

Experience with computer programming languages for instrument control, data acquisition, and data analysis (e.g. LabVIEW, MATLAB, Python).

Active DOE Q clearance (or equivalent)

Work Location:

The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM.

Additional details about the position:

Three-year renewable appointment contingent upon progress and funding availability. Consideration for Director's Funded and named Fellowships ject to federal restrictions on certain nationals as detailed above.

Directive 206.2 requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.

Q Clearance:
Applicants selected will be subject to a federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter. Position requires a Q clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship except in extremely rare circumstances.

New-Employment Drug Test:
The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing.

Equal Opportunity:
Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer and supports a diverse and inclusive workforce. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation or preference, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal laws and regulations.

The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process.