Postdoctoral Researcher in Dynamic Systems, Optimization, Control, and Energy Networks

What You Will Do

We are seeking qualified candidates to join the Theoretical Division (T‑Division) at Los Alamos National Laboratory. T‑Division offers a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment that promotes interdisciplinary collaboration in support of the Laboratory’s strategic basic research and national security missions.

Within T‑Division, the Applied Mathematics and Plasma Physics Group (T‑5) conducts cutting‑edge research in areas such as novel algorithms, numerical methods, and theoretical modeling. Applications span a wide range of fields, including fusion and high‑energy density science, space plasma physics, astrophysics, numerical analysis, machine learning, computational imaging, optimization, artificial intelligence, environmental science, and the modeling of critical infrastructure systems such as gas pipelines and electrical grids.

The selected candidate will work closely with mentors and other collaborators to develop novel algorithms for surrogate modeling, inference, parameter estimation, optimization, optimal control, and/or economic analysis of energy networks focusing on electric power and natural gas transmission and distribution. This work will involve developing new numerical methods that use spectral approximation, interior‑point optimization, and numerical linear algebra, potentially using high‑performance computing on novel architectures and agentic artificial intelligence systems.

A strong background in optimization and control with an emphasis on numerical methods and algorithms is required, and a demonstrated ability to develop and test novel computational methods to address scientific and technical issues is preferred. The initial appointment is for two years, with the possibility of a third‑year extension contingent on performance and available funding.

• Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science, Computational Science, or a closely related field completed within the past five years or soon to be completed.
• Demonstrated ability to publish in scientific journals and to communicate effectively, both written and orally.
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment and develop solutions for complex problems while networking with peers.
• Expertise in dynamical systems, control theory, optimization, and network science.
• Proficiency in one or more of MATLAB, Python, Julia, Rust, and/or C/C++.

• Experience in developing and implementing numerical methods for optimization in function space.
• Experience in scientific computing.
• Experience with software development and version control.
• Experience with quantitative economics.

The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.

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 spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local 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. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp or call .

Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China (including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau), the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation who are not lawful permanent residents are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.

Competitive salaries are based on the date of Ph.D. completion or award. The starting salary for a new graduate is currently $97,000. Benefits include medical insurance (PPO or high‑deductible), dental and vision insurance, basic life and disability insurance, paid parental leave, award‑winning 401(k) with 6% matching plus 3.5% annually, learning opportunities and tuition assistance, flexible schedules and time off, onsite gyms and wellness programs, and extensive relocation packages (outside a 50‑mile radius).

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