Postdoc — Experimental Impact Mechanics (Onsite)

Sandia National Laboratories; New Mexico; On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous vacation

Strong medical benefits

Competitive 401k

Relocation assistance

Learning opportunities

Amenities for work-life balance

Job summary

Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque, NM seeks a Postdoctoral Appointee for Experimental Impact Mechanics to advance high‑rate testing of materials using Hopkinson‑bar methods and advanced diagnostics, collaborating with multiple labs and publishing work.

A PhD in mechanical, civil, aerospace engineering or related field and DOE L clearance eligibility are required; candidates should show strong experimental background, teamwork, independence and excellent communication.

Qualifications

• PhD in Mechanical, Civil, Aerospace Engineering or related field with an emphasis in solid mechanics.
• Solid background and experience in experimental mechanics.
• Experience working both independently and as part of a team and multi‑task skills.
• Good communication skills as evidenced by a history of publication of results in peer‑reviewed journals and external presentations at appropriate scientific conferences.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE L clearance.

Responsibilities

• Perform experimental mechanics research with an emphasis on high‑rate/impact testing of materials and structures, with, but not limited to, split Hopkinson bar (or Kolsky bar) techniques implemented with advanced diagnostic techniques.
• Work with research engineers in EIML and collaborate with research engineers in other groups including the Structural Mechanics Lab, Mechanical Shock Lab, and computational solid mechanics group.
• Support research activities in the following areas: mechanical characterization of materials in normal and abnormal environments, rate‑dependent material model development, dynamic failure and fracture, shock mitigation, and advanced experimental methods/diagnostic technique development.
• Perform experimental design, execution, and analysis.
• Produce technical reports, peer‑reviewed journal articles, and conference presentations.
• Due to the nature of the work, the selected applicant will be required to work onsite.

Skills

Experimental mechanics

Independent work

Teamwork

Communication skills

Multitasking

Education

PhD in Mechanical, Civil, Aerospace Engineering or related field with emphasis in solid mechanics

Job description

Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque, NM seeks a Postdoctoral Appointee for Experimental Impact Mechanics to advance high‑rate testing of materials using Hopkinson‑bar methods and advanced diagnostics, collaborating with multiple labs and publishing work.

A PhD in mechanical, civil, aerospace engineering or related field and DOE L clearance eligibility are required; candidates should show strong experimental background, teamwork, independence and excellent communication.