What You Will Do

Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in science and engineering on behalf of national security. The Applied Acoustics Team in Materials Physics and Applications division (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 a new acoustic imaging platform for enhanced geothermal systems, as well as a noninvasive acoustic fluid characterization system. 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.

What You Need

Minimum Job Requirements:

• 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, 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

• Knowledge of electronics and typical laboratory test instruments, such as function generators, oscilloscopes and piezoelectric transducers

• 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

Desired Qualifications:

• 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

• Ability to obtain DOE Q clearance (usually requires US citizenship)

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: Competitive salaries are based on the date the PhD degree requirements were completed or the degree was awarded. Starting salary for a new graduate is currently $94,500. For more information go to Postdoc Program website at https://www.lanl.gov/careers/career-options/postdoctoral-research/index.php .

Contact: Dr. Cristian Pantea, pantea@lanl.gov

Where You Will Work

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% annually)

§ Learning opportunities and tuition assistance

§ Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)

§ Onsite gyms and wellness programs

§ Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)

Additional Details

Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2 (https://directives.nnsa.doe.gov/supplemental-directive/sd-0206-0002) . Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.

Position does not require a security clearance. Selected candidates will be subject to drug testing and other pre-employment background checks.

New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.

Equal Opportunity: 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@lanl.gov or call 1-505-664-6947 option 2 and then option 3.