Graduate Student SA 1

Los Alamos National Laboratory; Los Alamos (NM); On-site; USD 50,971 - 57,859; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental and vision insurance

Relocation assistance

Tuition assistance

Flexible schedules

Onsite gym

Job summary

Los Alamos National Laboratory is seeking a graduate research assistant in the Fluid Dynamics and Solid Mechanics Group to explore computational solid mechanics, fracture mechanics, and related numerical methods.

The work focuses on modeling material dynamics, coupling advanced models with FEM/MPM approaches across scales, and collaboration with DOE/NNSA partners. Ideal candidates are pursuing a Master’s or PhD in relevant fields.

Qualifications

• Enrollment in a Master’s or Doctoral degree in computational mechanics, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, or applied mathematics.
• GPA of at least 3.2 on graduate coursework.
• Ability to work within a collaborative team environment.
• Desire to learn new things and openness to work on different projects.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research spanning computational solid mechanics, fracture mechanics, geomechanics and development of numerical methods.
• Model material dynamics across multiple length scales and couple advanced models with numerical methods.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and DOE/NNSA partners.

Skills

Collaborative work

Willingness to learn

FEM/MPM programming

Research in fluid/solid dynamics

Education

Master's or PhD in Computational Mechanics

GPA ≥ 3.2 on graduate coursework

Job description

What You Will Do

The Fluid Dynamics and Solid Mechanics Group (T-3) of the Theoretical Division seeks outstanding candidates for a graduate research assistant position in computational mechanics and solid mechanics. The successful candidate will conduct research spanning computational solid mechanics, fracture mechanics, geomechanics, and the development of related numerical methods and algorithms.

The group conducts research in theoretical and computational continuum dynamics, modeling and simulation of fluids and deforming solids across multiple length and time scales. Research projects emphasize coupling advanced models and numerical methods for material dynamics at all velocities with coupled physical processes such as large solid deformation, multiphase flows, chemical reactions, phase change, heat and mass transfer, and combustion. The group has experience across engineering, physics, and applied mathematics and collaborates with the National Nuclear Security Administration, other Department of Energy offices, the Department of Defense, private industry, and academia.

What You Need

Minimum Job Requirements:

• Enrollment in a Master's or Doctoral Degree in Computational Mechanics, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or Applied Mathematics
• A cumulative GPA of at least 3.2 on graduate coursework
• Ability to work within a collaborative team environment
• Desire to learn new things and openness to work on different projects

Desired Qualifications:

• Extensive experience in programming finite element method (FEM) or material point method (MPM) codes
• Research experience in theoretical modeling and numerical computation of fluid dynamics, or solid dynamics, or a related field of physics

Note to Applicants

• For full consideration a package must include a CV
• Applicant reviews will begin on July 18th, 2026
• The initial appointment is for 6 months, with possible extensions of up to 3-4 years depending on progress and funding
• If you have any questions, please contact [e-mail]
• Salaries range from $36.52/hr to $42.36/hr depending on education completed. Full salary information can be found at https://www.lanl.gov/careers/career-options/student-internships/_assets/docs/Student%20Salary%20Structure%202023.pdf

Work Location

The work location for this position is onsite in Los Alamos, NM, at the discretion of management.

Benefits

• PPO or high-deductible medical insurance with a large nationwide network
• Dental and vision insurance
• Basic life and disability insurance
• Paid childbirth and parental leave
• Award‑winning 401(k) with 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 for moves outside a 50‑mile radius

Other Details

Directive 206.2 – Employment requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating the employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. This requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.

No Clearance: The position does not require a security clearance. Selected candidates will be subject to drug testing and other pre‑employment background checks.

Drug Test: The Laboratory requires a new‑employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. A positive drug test for marijuana regardless of state law will result in termination of employment.

Internal Applicants: Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs. Employees who have not served the required period may apply only with documented approval of their Division Leader. Refer to Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.

Equal Opportunity

Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations upon request.