Experimental Laser Driven Sources Postdoctoral Researcher

What You Will Do

The P-4 Thermonuclear Plasma Physics Group is seeking candidates for a postdoctoral position focused on developing and characterizing short-pulse laser accelerated probe beams for radiography applications. The candidate will lead the development of laser-radiography platforms at the Omega Laser Facility and other short-pulse lasers, as well as design and deploy diagnostics to characterize particle sources.

P-4 conducts a broad range of research, including short-pulse laser-driven radiography, hydrodynamics, radiation transport, opacity, radiation hydrodynamics, inertial confinement fusion (ICF), magneto-inertial fusion, and magnetized fusion energy in support of the laboratory. We perform experiments on large- and small-scale experimental facilities, including the National Ignition Facility (NIF), the Omega laser facility at the University of Rochester, the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS), the Advanced Photon Source, and other facilities around the world.

This postdoctoral position will be focused on using short-pulse lasers to generate probe beams for radiography.

• Ability to carry out independent and collaborative research in experimental physics or a very closely related discipline.
• Ability to communicate both technically and interpersonally both orally and in writing. Examples include but are not limited to journal presentations, technical reports, oral or poster conference presentations, public speaking, and classes taught.
• Demonstrate a commitment to quality research, technical and scientific excellence, professional integrity, and personal initiative.
• Ability and willingness to obtain a U.S. DOE Q clearance, which typically requires US citizenship.
• A Ph.D. in Physics, Engineering, or a closely related field, completed within the last five years.

• Familiarity with approaches and challenges of short-pulse laser acceleration of particle beams
• Experience leading or executing short-pulse laser experiments
• Experience with designing and deploying diagnostic instruments
• Knowledge and experience using radiography to interrogate experiments
• Experience with data analysis using tools such as MATLAB, Python, or machine learning

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

This position may require 24/7 coverage, which could involve working a shift/weekend schedule. Employees may be eligible for shift differential pay when assigned by their manager. Shift/weekend assignments are at the discretion of the manager.

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-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.

Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:

• PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large 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%…