Physical Sciences Graduate Research Assistant Student

** What You Will Do*
* ** The Integrated Design and Assessment (XTD-IDA) group in the X Theoretical Design (XTD) division is seeking motivated candidates for a six-month Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) position simulating small scale mixing in Double Cylinder experiments.*
* ** The Double Cylinder experiments are a series of experiments fired at the Sandia Z machine that aim to understand the hydrodynamic development of features in imploding geometries, such as joints in Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF) capsules. In these experiments, Z is used to implode a pair of concentric cylindrical shells around a central witness rod, with 2D defects placed on the inner shell.

These features are unstable and produce spikes that can interact and imprint onto the central rod. The experiments are nominally two dimensional, but simulations of the double shell experiments have found them to be sensitive to 3D effects.*
* ** In particular, the focus of this position is to research the effects of small-scale mixing and how it should be modeled in these experiments. This will involve performing 3D Implicit Large Eddy Simulations (ILES) of the experiments using the laboratory's Eulerian xRage code to gauge the computational requirements to properly simulate the mixing. Simulations in the Lagrangian FLAG code are also of interest if time permits.

Additionally, 2D and 3D simulations using turbulence models are needed to understand the extent to which these mix effects can be captured in lower cost simulations, and how large-scale thermal instabilities in the exterior of the experiment that drive the mixing should be represented in the mix models. An internal report and/or presentation is required at the end of the six months to document the performed work, and interaction with the broader research community via conferences and journal publications is encouraged.*
* ** What You Need*
* ** Minimum

Job Requirements:

*
* + Pass a 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.

+ Demonstrated ability to communicate (verbal and written) well in a professional scientific context; and commitment to achieving results in a complex social and organizational setting.

+ Experience working effectively as part of a team with a willingness to assist and support other team members as needed; and also have the ability to work independently.

+ Proficient in the use of standard office software, such as Microsoft Office Suite applications including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.

Education and Experience:

Have and maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.2 on a 4.0 scale. Provide documentation of acceptance into a graduate program. Enroll in and successfully complete a minimum of 6 graduate credit hours per semester (or the equivalent of full time enrollment). All students MUST remain enrolled at their university while working at the Lab during the academic year [

Note:

Students must provide the program coordinator with current, official transcripts annually to remain eligible].

** Desired

Qualifications:

*
* + Exposure to and interest in a relevant discipline such as fluid dynamics, turbulence modeling or applied mathematics

+ Proficiency in one or more scientific programming languages (e.g. C++, Fortran, or Python);

+ Undergraduate degree in physical science or engineering is preferred.

Work Location:

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:
When applying, candidates must attach a resume, detailed cover letter addressing all minimum job requirements and desired qualifications, and most recent transcripts.

Important:
Applicants who fail to submit the three required application documents (resume, cover letter, and transcripts) will not be considered for employment. Cover letters are most effective when they clearly indicate your research interests and highlight your most noteworthy achievements and accomplishments. Your cover letter should also explain how you have demonstrated the application of desired…