Postdoctoral Research Associate interface of cryo-EM and AI at Los Alamos National Laboratory

What You Will Do

Are you excited by the idea of using cryo-EM and AI side-by-side to crack open the next generation of structural biology problems?

We are looking for a hands‑on experimental cryo‑EM scientist to join an interdisciplinary team at the interface of cryo‑EM, machine learning, and biomedical discovery. This position offers a rare opportunity to both solve groundbreaking structures and co‑develop state‑of‑the‑art AI models that learn directly from experimental data.

• Design and execute cutting‑edge cryo‑EM experiments from sample preparation through data collection.
• Drive data processing and 3D reconstruction, working closely with AI scientists to push resolution and interpretability.
• Help design and test new AI methods that accelerate structure determination and reveal dynamic conformational landscapes.
• Work with exascale‑class high‑performance computing resources and modern GPU clusters to turn massive datasets into biological insight.
• You’ll be embedded in a team that brings together structural biology, physics, computation, and AI.

Minimum

Job Requirements:

• Experience in performing cryo-EM experiments
• Experience in protein purification
• Experience in RNA biochemistry
• Demonstrated scientific productivity (e.g., peer‑reviewed publications, open‑source tools)
• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate across disciplines

Education/

Experience:

Ph.D. in Structural Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Chemistry, or a related field completed within the last five years or expected soon.

Desired

Qualifications:

• Experience in sample preparation and grid optimization
• Experience with structural modeling
• Commitment to collaborative, interdisciplinary research
• Familiarity with AI/ML frameworks

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.

• Salary range: $97,000 – $114,000, commensurate with experience
• Excellent benefits package including health, dental, and retirement options

• PPO or high deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
• Dental and vision insurance
• Free basic life and disability insurance
• Paid maternity and parental leave
• Award‑winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
• Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
• Flexible schedules and time off (paid sick, vacation, and holidays)
• Onsite gyms and wellness programs
• Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)

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.

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, 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. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp or call

Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. Please note that this…