High Energy Density Science (HEDS) Center Postdoctoral Fellow

Job Description

We have an opening for a High Energy Density Science (HEDS) Center Postdoctoral Fellow. The purpose of this fellowship is to attract top HEDS talent to Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) and to support fellows’ careers as they grow to be future leaders of the field. The HEDS Center Fellow will do creative and independent research in any aspect of HEDS science, including inertial confinement fusion, lasers and optics, high pressure science, opacity, charged particle transport, astrophysics, nuclear physics, and matter in extreme conditions.

Fellows participate in experimental, theoretical, or computational work at LLNL, and will have access to LLNL's extensive computing facilities, talent pool, specialized laboratory facilities and field equipment.

The HEDS Center at LLNL is a focal point for connecting experts around the world with the extensive experimental and computational capabilities  Center's mission is to strengthen fundamental research collaborations in the field of HED science between LLNL and the academic community, recruit bright scientists to LLNL's HEDS programs, and educate people about HEDS. Details about LLNL's High Energy Density Science Center may be found at: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..gov

Depending on your assignment, this position may offer a hybrid schedule, blending in-person and virtual presence. You may have the flexibility to work from home one or more days per week.

• Conduct research and/or development in one or more of the following areas: plasma physics, astrophysics, hydrodynamics, nuclear physics, high pressure science, warm dense matter and hot dense matter physics, strongly coupled Coulomb systems, lasers, laser-driven dynamic compression, matter at extreme conditions, interiors of planets and exoplanets, giant impacts, or related field.
• Organize, analyze, and present data from research.
• Pursue independent (but complementary) research interests and interact with exceptional scientists both internal and external to the Laboratory.
• Collaborate with others in a multidisciplinary team environment to accomplish research goals.
• Publish research results in peer-reviewed scientific or technical journals and present results at external conferences, seminars and/or technical meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

The deadline for application is October 5, 2026. Reference letters and LLNL staff endorsements must be received by October 12, 2026.

• Must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). See Additional Information section below for details.
• Endorsement from a prospective mentor, who must be a permanent research staff member at LLNL.
• PhD in a field relevant to high energy density science, including nuclear physics, plasma physics, hydrodynamics, astrophysics, lasers, warm dense matter, hot dense matter, strongly coupled Coulomb systems, high-pressure science, laser-driven dynamic compression, matter at extreme conditions, interiors of planets and exoplanets, giant impacts.
• Creativity, exceptional ability, and proven accomplishments in applicant's area of specialization as demonstrated through publication of peer-reviewed literature, awards, or other accomplishments.
• Demonstrated ability to propose and execute research aligned with current or emerging LLNL high energy density science mission needs and strategic growth areas.
• Demonstrated potential for sustained technical contribution in research areas of current or emerging strategic importance to LLNL in high energy density science.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills to collaborate effectively in a team environment and present and explain technical information as demonstrated through publication of peer-reviewed literature, presentations, and the interview.

$151,092 Annually

This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An employee’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs.

Position Information:
This is a Postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of extension to a maximum of three years, open to those who have been awarded a PhD at time of hire date.

Included in 2026 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!

• Flexible Benefits Package
• 401(k)
• Relocation Assistance
• Education Reimbursement Program
• Flexible schedules (
  * depending on project needs)

None required. However, if your assignment is longer than 179 days cumulatively within a calendar year, you must go through the Personal Identity Verification process. This process includes completing an online background investigation form and…