Postdoc: Densified Geothermal Fluids Scientist

Los Alamos National Security LLC; Los Alamos (NM); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Onsite gyms

Tuition assistance

Job summary

Los Alamos National Laboratory in Los Alamos, NM is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to design, formulate, and experimentally validate densified working fluids for superhot geothermal systems.

The role emphasizes hands-on formulation, screening, and optimization of fluid-only and fluid-solid systems at temperatures 375 C+ and 22 MPa+, collaborating with geochemistry, geomechanics, AI/ML-guided screening, and reservoir simulation.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in chemistry, geochemistry, materials science, or a related field.
• Hands-on experimental experience formulating or characterizing complex fluids.
• Experience with pressurized or high-temperature systems is beneficial.
• Peer‑reviewed publications and strong written, oral, and collaborative communication skills.
• Education: Ph.D. within the last five years or by commencement.

Responsibilities

• Design, formulate, and validate densified fluids for superhot geothermal systems.
• Coordinate with geochemistry, geomechanics, modeling teams and publish results.
• Establish fluid-design and qualification workflows.
• Work onsite in Los Alamos NM with a multi-disciplinary team.

Skills

Fluid thermodynamics

Rheology

Transport phenomena

Hydrothermal chemistry

Reactive processes

Python & data analysis

Education

Ph.D. in chemistry

Ph.D. in geochemistry

Tools

High-temperature rheometers

Autoclaves

Reaction vessels

Flow-through systems

ICP-MS/OES

Job description

Los Alamos National Laboratory in Los Alamos, NM is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to design, formulate, and experimentally validate densified working fluids for superhot geothermal systems.

The role emphasizes hands-on formulation, screening, and optimization of fluid-only and fluid-solid systems at temperatures 375 C+ and 22 MPa+, collaborating with geochemistry, geomechanics, AI/ML-guided screening, and reservoir simulation.