Postdoctoral Research Associate

Los Alamos National Laboratory; Los Alamos (NM); On-site; USD 97,000 - 112,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in New Mexico is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate with expertise in nuclear physics and radiation detection. The role involves developing innovative methods for radioisotope measurement and contributing to projects in nuclear forensics and treaty monitoring. Candidates must possess a PhD and demonstrate strong communication skills. This position offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package, including flexible work arrangements.

Benefits

PPO or High Deductible medical insurance

Dental and vision insurance

Free basic life and disability insurance

Paid childbirth and parental leave

401(k) with matching

Learning opportunities and tuition assistance

Flexible schedules and time off

Onsite gyms and wellness programs

Extensive relocation packages

Qualifications

• Strong background in gamma-ray spectrometry and radiation detection physics.
• Demonstrated excellence in written and oral communication.
• Ability to work creatively and independently.

Responsibilities

• Develop new methods for measuring radioisotopes using gamma-ray spectrometry.
• Support R&D programs focused on radioisotope quantification.
• Work collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team.

Skills

gamma-ray spectrometry

radiation detection

programming

problem solving

Education

PhD in nuclear physics

PhD in nuclear engineering

PhD in chemistry

Tools

C/C++

Python

MCNP

GEANT4

Job description

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What You Will Do

The Nuclear & Radiochemistry Group (C-NR) invites outstanding applicants to apply for a postdoctoral position in nuclear spectrometry and detection. We are seeking an outstanding candidate with extensive experience in experimental nuclear physics and radiation detection, or a related field to support R&D programs focused on radioisotope quantification measurements and nuclear data. Candidates will work within a team to develop new methods for measuring radioisotopes using gamma-ray spectrometry and beta decay counting, including coincidence counting and other advance spectroscopy techniques. This research is to support work within nuclear forensics, nuclear treaty monitoring, and stewardship of the US nuclear weapons deterrent. Candidates must be willing and able to work within an interdisciplinary team of scientists from multiple organizations within LANL.

What You Will Do

The Nuclear & Radiochemistry Group (C-NR) invites outstanding applicants to apply for a postdoctoral position in nuclear spectrometry and detection. We are seeking an outstanding candidate with extensive experience in experimental nuclear physics and radiation detection, or a related field to support R&D programs focused on radioisotope quantification measurements and nuclear data. Candidates will work within a team to develop new methods for measuring radioisotopes using gamma-ray spectrometry and beta decay counting, including coincidence counting and other advance spectroscopy techniques. This research is to support work within nuclear forensics, nuclear treaty monitoring, and stewardship of the US nuclear weapons deterrent. Candidates must be willing and able to work within an interdisciplinary team of scientists from multiple organizations within LANL.

Job Requirements

Minimum Job Requirements

• A strong background in gamma-ray spectrometry, detector development, or radiation detection physics is essential.
• The candidate must have the ability to work creatively and independently, while also contributing effectively to the overall team efforts.
• Demonstrated excellence in written and oral communication skills, as evidenced by a strong publication and presentation record.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and with minimum supervision.
• Demonstrated ability to plan and organize assignments so that schedules are met on time.
• Contribute to overall team missions by working collaboratively with other staff
• Ability to obtain a 'Q' clearance.
  
  

Desired Skills

• Programming experience with C/C++, Python
• Detector/Experiment modeling using MCNP or GEANT4
• Experience with digital data acquisition systems
• Rigorous analysis using spectroscopic, analytical and/or radio analytical techniques.
• Track record of problem solving in a laboratory environment
  
  

Education: PhD in nuclear physics, nuclear engineering, chemistry, or related fields completed within the past five years or soon to be completed.

Work Environment:

Work Location: The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.

Notes to Applicants

Along with a resume or CV, applicants should include a detailed cover letter explaining how they fulfil the job requirements and/or desired skills. Postdoctoral appointments are for a period of two years, with the possibility of a third-year extension. Appropriate training will be provided for a suitable candidate if they have no prior experience working hands-on with radioactive materials.

Salary: Competitive salaries are based on the date the PhD degree requirements were completed or the degree was awarded. Starting salary for a new graduate is currently $97,000. For more information go to Postdoc Program website at https://www.lanl.gov/careers/career-options/postdoctoral-research/index.php .

Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.

Where You Will Work

Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:

• PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
• Dental and vision insurance
• Free basic life and disability insurance
• Paid childbirth and parental leave
• Award-winning 401(k) (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 (outside a 50 mile radius)
  
  

Additional Details

Q Clearance: Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements* for access to classified matter.

• Eligibility requirements: To obtain a clearance, an individual must be at least 18 years of age; U.S. citizenship is required except in very limited circumstances. See DOE Order 472.2 for additional information.
  
  

New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing.

Candidates may be considered for a Director's Postdoc Fellowship and outstanding candidates may be considered for the prestigious Richard P. Feynman, Darleane Christian Hoffman, J. Robert Oppenheimer, or Frederick Reines Distinguished Postdoc Fellowships.

For general information go to Postdoc Program.

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If you experience any technical issues, please email [e-mail] for assistance.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Not Applicable

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Research, Analyst, and Information Technology

• Industries

  Defense and Space Manufacturing and Research Services

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