Nondestructive Evaluation Ultrasound - Postdoctoral Researcher

LLNL; Livermore (CA); On-site; USD 122,000 - 143,000; Full time

Job summary

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) seeks a Postdoctoral Researcher in Ultrasonics to join the Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) Group. Conduct research to characterize complex materials and components using advanced experimental and analytical methods in ultrasonics, acoustics, laser methods, wave propagation, and materials mechanics.

This full‑time on‑site position offers opportunities to publish, collaborate across disciplines, and contribute to mission‑driven research supporting

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in physics, mechanical engineering, materials engineering, or related field.
• Experience in ultrasonics, acoustics, and wave propagation.
• Design and execution of experiments in signal processing, machine learning, modeling, or data analysis.
• Ability to publish in peer‑reviewed literature.
• U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain DOE Q clearance.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in ultrasonics, acoustics, laser ultrasonics, embedded sensors, mechanics of materials, and materials science.
• Design, implement, and evaluate experimental methods for material characterization and nondestructive evaluation.
• Analyze experimental data using signal processing, statistics, and machine learning.
• Model characterization using finite element, ray-tracing, or Monte Carlo methods.
• Collaborate with engineers and scientists across disciplines; publish results in journals.

Skills

Ultrasonics

Acoustics

Machine learning

Data analysis

Team collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in physics / mechanical/materials engineering

Tools

MATLAB

Python

COMSOL

ANSYS

Job description

• Full-time
• Employee Referral Bonus: Not applicable
• Job Code 1: PDS.1 Post-Dr Research Staff 1
• Pre-Employment Drug Test: Required for external applicant(s) selected for this position (includes testing for use of marijuana)
• Pre-Placement Medical Exam: Not applicable
• Position Type: Post Doctoral
• Security Clearance: Anticipated DOE Q clearance (requires U.S. citizenship and a federal background investigation)

Company Description

Join us and make YOUR mark on the World!

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) has turned bold ideas into world-changing impact advancing science and technology to strengthen U.S. security and promote global stability.

Our mission spans four critical national security areas nuclear deterrence, threat preparedness, energy security, and multi-domain defense empowering teams to take on the toughest challenges of today and tomorrow. With a culture built on innovation and operational excellence, LLNL is a place where your expertise can make a real impact.

Job Description

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher in Ultrasonics to join the Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) Group. In this role, you will conduct research to characterize complex, heterogeneous materials and components using advanced experimental and analytical methods. Relevant technical areas include ultrasonics, acoustics, laser and optical methods, wave propagation, vibrations, solid mechanics, and mechanics of materials. Working under the guidance of scientific staff, you will contribute to research focused on process characterization and part inspection. You will support mission-driven research that advances national security. This position offers the opportunity to build your research portfolio, publish impactful work, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams in a highly applied environment. The position is within the Materials Engineering Division (MED) of the Engineering Directorate.

This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work.

You will

• Conduct research and development in one or more of the following areas: ultrasonics, acoustics, laser ultrasonics, embedded sensors, mechanics of materials, and materials science.
• Design, implement, and evaluate experimental methods for material characterization, in situ process feedback, and the nondestructive evaluation of parts and assemblies.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data using signal processing, statistical analysis, and machine learning approaches.
• Model characterization and inspection physics using finite element, ray-tracing, or Monte Carlo methods, as appropriate.
• Contribute to the conception, planning, and execution of research projects addressing defined scientific and engineering problems.
• Pursue independent yet complementary research aligned with programmatic needs and emerging technical opportunities.
• Collaborate with engineers and scientists across disciplines to achieve project objectives.
• Publish results in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at conferences, seminars, and technical meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship.
• Ph.D. in physics, mechanical engineering, materials engineering, or a related field.
• Experience in one or more of the following areas: ultrasonics, acoustics, and wave propagation.
• Demonstrated ability to design and execute experiments in one or more of the following areas: signal processing, machine learning, modeling, or data analysis.
• Ability to develop independent research projects, including publications in peer-reviewed literature.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment and present and explain technical information.
• Strong initiative and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.

Qualifications We Desire

• Experience with MATLAB and/or Python.
• Experience with wave-propagation modeling and simulation, as well as multiphysics simulation tools such as COMSOL or ANSYS.
• Experience with typical ultrasonic test equipment, including transducers, immersion scanning systems, and phased arrays.
• Experience developing algorithms and applying data-processing techniques for wave propagation.

Pay Range

$122,028 - $143,328 Annually

Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. Many factors are taken into consideration when setting starting pay including education, experience, the external labor market, and internal equity.

Additional Information

#LI-Onsite

Position Information

This is a Postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of extension to a maximum of three years. The postdoctoral appointment is a temporary, mentored training position intended for individuals in the early stages of their postdoctoral research careers. Consistent with the structure of the program, applicants must have received their Ph.D. (or equivalent doctorate) within five years of the anticipated start date.

Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?

• Included in 2026Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
• Flexible schedules (*depending on project needs)

This position requires a Department of Energy (DOE) Q-level clearance.If you are selected, wewill initiate a Federal background investigation to determine if youmeet eligibility requirements for access to classified information or matter. Also, all L or Q cleared employees are subject to random drug testing. Q-level clearance requires U.S. citizenship.

Pre-Employment Drug Test

External applicant(s) selected for this position must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.

Wireless and Medical Devices

Per the Department of Energy (DOE), Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory must meet certain restrictions with the useand/or possession ofmobile devices in Limited Areas. Depending on your job duties, you may be required to work in a Limited Area whereyou are not permitted to have a personal and/or laboratory mobile devicein your possession. This includes, but not limited to cell phones, tablets, fitness devices, wireless headphones, and other Bluetooth/wireless enabled devices.

Ifyou useamedical device, whichpairs with a mobile device,you must still follow the rules concerningthe mobile device in individual sections within Limited Areas. Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities requireseparate approval. Hearing aids without wireless capabilities or wireless that has been disabled are allowed in Limited Areas, Secure Space and Transit/Buffer Space within buildings.

We are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to providing all with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status, age, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.

Reasonable Accommodation

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