Postdoctoral Experimental Physicists

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory; Livermore (CA); On-site; USD 119,000 - 131,000; Full time

Job summary

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) invites applications for Postdoctoral Experimental Physicists to independently execute experiments and develop instrumentation in support of NIF and OMEGA laser-matter research. You will plan, design, and oversee experiments in laser-plasma interactions, hydrodynamics, radiation transport, and related areas.

The role is a Post Doctoral appointment within the High Energy Density Program, collaborating with scientists across LLNL and the national

Qualifications

• PhD in a physics-related field with strong experimental focus.
• Experience with diagnostic development and data analysis.
• Proven ability to work in a team and communicate results.

Responsibilities

• Research, design and execute x-ray and laser-driven experiments at NIF, OMEGA, and Jupiter facilities.
• Design, field, and coordinate optical, x-ray and nuclear diagnostics.
• Prepare and present technical reports, publications, and conference papers.
• Collaborate with scientists to achieve research objectives.
• Coordinate resources and plan experimental campaigns.
• Pursue independent, complementary research interests.

Skills

PhD in a relevant field

Experimental physics

Diagnostics development

Analytical problem solving

Written and verbal communication

Collaborative teamwork

Independent research

Education

PhD in plasma physics, hydrodynamics, shock physics, spectroscopy, condensed matter, nuclear physics, dynamic material science, or related

Tools

X-ray diagnostics

Optical diagnostics

Nuclear diagnostics

Job description

Entry Level | Full-time
Postdoctoral/Fellowship | Livermore, CA | 09/14/2026
Reference #: REF8817G
Job Code: PDS.1 Post-Dr Research Staff 1
Organization: NIF and Photon Science
Position Type: Post Doctoral
Security Clearance: None/Position does not require US citizenship (assignments longer than 179 days require a federal background investigation)
Drug Test: Required for external applicant(s) selected for this position (includes testing for use of marijuana)
Medical Exam: Not applicable

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 have openings for Postdoctoral Experimental Physicists to independently execute experiments and/or to develop instrumentation in support of the National Ignition Facility (NIF) and OMEGA laser-matter research. You will plan, design, execute and oversee experiments in the fields of laser-plasma interactions, hydrodynamics, radiation transport, implosion physics, material strength and nuclear physics. These positions are in the High Energy Density (HED) Scientific & Technology (S&T) Program within the National Ignition Facility and Photon Science (NIF & PS) Principal Associate Directorate (PAD).

In this role, you will

• Research, design and execute x-ray and laser driven experiments at NIF, at the OMEGA Laser Facility, and at the on-site Jupiter Laser Facility.
• Design, field, and coordinate optical, x-ray and nuclear diagnostics.
• Prepare and present technical and scientific reports, presentations, and publications for both internal and external audiences, including the DOE community and at conferences.
• Collaborate with scientists and researchers to achieve research objectives.
• Coordinate team resources and plan experimental campaigns.
• Pursue independent, complementary research interests and engage with a wide range of scientists both within and outside the laboratory.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• PhD in plasma physics, hydrodynamics, shock physics, spectroscopy, condensed matter, nuclear physics, dynamic material science, or a related discipline.
• Experience in experimental physics in one or more of the following areas: laser-plasma interactions, hydrodynamics, radiation-driven hydrodynamics, radiation transport, condensed matter, nuclear physics, or high energy density experiments.
• Comprehensive analytical, experimental, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with x-ray, optical, charged particle, or nuclear diagnostics, including their development, calibration, or fielding, and associated analysis techniques.
• Proficient written and verbal communication skills to author technical and scientific reports, publications, and invited papers, and deliver scientific presentations.
• Effective interpersonal skills necessary to collaborate and work in a team environment.
• Ability to perform independent research.

Qualifications We Desire

• Experience with lasers, pulsed-power sources, high-density plasma interactions, and/or conducting high energy density experiments.

Pay Range

$118,594 - $131,174 Annually

This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An employee’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs.

Additional Information

#LI-Onsite

Position Information

This is a Postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of extension to a maximum of three years, open to those who have been awarded a PhD at time of hire date.

Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?

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

None required. However, if your assignment is longer than 179 days cumulatively within a calendar year, you must go through the Personal Identity Verification process. This process includes completing an online background investigation form and receiving approval of the background check.

National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)

The 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Section 3112, generally prohibits citizens of China, Russia, Iran and North Korea without dual US citizenship or legal permanent residence from accessing specific non-public areas of national security or nuclear weapons facilities. The restrictions of NDAA Section 3112 apply to this position. To be qualified for this position, Candidates must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112.

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.

Reasonable Accommodation

Our goal is to create an accessible and inclusive experience for all candidates applying and interviewing at the Laboratory. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please use our online form to submit a request.

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