Acoustics Experimental and Data Analysis Postdoc

Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in science and engineering on behalf of national security. The Applied Acoustics Team (MPA-11) is looking for a postdoctoral researcher with strong experimental and data analysis skills. We are seeking a highly motivated individual to join a multidisciplinary research team and contribute to the development of new defect detection and qualification technologies for critical applications.

This work involves complex experimental work, as well as significant data analysis and signal processing. Our current work focuses on applied research for material characterization (solids, liquids, gases), acoustical imaging, nonlinear acoustics, acoustic separation of two-phase systems, detection of corrosion and other defects in materials and acoustically engineered materials. The work involves development of new techniques, customized instrumentation and validation of measurements in the field.

The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to the development of new sensing technologies, patents and publications. There will be opportunities to work in a wide range of areas, to innovate, and present work to sponsors and conferences. A background in ultrasonics/acoustics is not required, and thus candidates with strong hands‑on experimental skills are encouraged to apply.

• Ph.D. in Applied Physics, Engineering, Materials Science or a closely related field, earned within the last five years or soon to be completed
• Strong technical background in one or more of the following areas: signal processing, advanced data analysis, finite element analysis (especially COMSOL), ultrasonic techniques, nondestructive testing, structural mechanics, and machine learning
• Fluency in one or more computer programming languages (e.g., Matlab, Python, Visual Basic, C++, LabVIEW, etc.)
• Hands‑on experience designing and conducting experiments
• Demonstrated experience in conducting original scientific research through peer‑reviewed publication record
• Experience with complex experimental design/execution and associated data analysis
• Demonstrated capability to act both creatively and independently to accomplish tasks given by senior personnel
• Ability to obtain DOE Q clearance (usually requires US citizenship)

• Knowledge of electronics and typical laboratory test instruments, such as function generators, oscilloscopes and piezoelectric transducers
• Experience with CAD software
• Experience in ultrasonic flaw detection, acoustic imaging, or acoustic characterization of materials
• Experience with acoustic instrumentation in harsh environments
• Experience with acoustic resonance techniques (i.e. ARS, RUS, etc.)
• Ability to adapt to new requirements for projects and be flexible to learn new areas of research as needed
• PCB CAD experience (Eagle, Altium, etc.)
• Analog circuit design and analysis
• Digital circuit design
• Power electronics design and electrical impedance matching

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

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…