Theory Postdoctoral Research Associate in Computational Materials Theory and Discovery

Los Alamos National Laboratory; Los Alamos (NM); On-site; USD 65,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life and disability insurance

Parental leave

401(k) plan

Tuition assistance

Flexible schedules

Relocation packages

Job summary

Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) invites applications for a postdoctoral position in computational materials physics within the Quantum and Condensed Matter Physics Group. The candidate will apply first-principles DFT (VASP/QE/Wien2k) and high-throughput workflows, enhanced with machine learning, to discover and inversely design 2D f-electron topological materials.

The work will combine workflow development with applying existing codes, and it will involve collaboration with LANL and UC

Qualifications

• Strong publications record in computational materials theory.
• Dense-DFT experience with standard codes (VASP, QE, Wien2k).
• Programming skills in Python, C++, or Fortran.
• Experience with high-performance Linux environments.
• Familiarity with machine learning is desirable.
• Ability to work both collaboratively and independently.

Responsibilities

• Develop computational workflows and apply DFT codes to discover 2D f-electron topological materials.
• Collaborate with theory and experimental teams to advance quantum information goals.

Skills

DFT simulations

Python

C++

Fortran

Machine Learning

Education

PhD in Physics/Chemistry/Materials Science

Tools

VASP

Quantum Espresso

WIEN2k

Job description

What You Will Do

The Quantum and Condensed Matter Physics Group in the Theoretical Division of Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) has an immediate opening of postdoctoral position in the area of computational materials physics. The postdoc will focus on applying first-principles density functional theory (DFT) and high-throughput approaches in combination with machine learning techniques for discovering and the inverse design of novel 2D f-electron materials with non-trivial topological properties. The work will be a combination of developing computational workflows and applying existing DFT codes. Successful applicants will join a highly collaborative project aimed at unraveling both the fundamental properties of these systems and establishing a new route to quantum information and laying the foundation for future quantum information devices and be an integral part of a dynamic team of condensed matter theory and experiment scientists at Los Alamos National Laboratory and University of California, Irvine.

What You Need

Minimum Job Requirements

A successful candidate must demonstrate strong skills in computational materials theory with an excellent scientific record of publications. Expertise in first-principles density functional theory simulations (i.e., working experience with standard DFT methods, such as VASP, Quantum Espresso, or Wien2k) and experience programming in either Python, C++, or Fortran is required while knowledge of machine learning is highly desired, but not necessary. The ability to work creatively as a part of a diverse team and independently is important. Strong written and oral communication skills are essential.

Education

Candidates must have a Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, or Materials Science (completed within the last 5 years).

Desired Qualifications

• Experience working in Linux computing environments, especially in the context of high-performance computing.
• Experience or knowledge of basic machine learning methods.

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.

Note to Applicants

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.

Further inquiries can be addressed to Dr. Christopher Lane (email: [e-mail]) or Dr. Ying-Wai Li (email: [e-mail]).

The position has an initial appointment of two years. Additional information on salary ranges and other benefits can be found online at http://www.lanl.gov/postdocs/.

Candidates may be considered for a Director's Fellowship and outstanding candidates may be considered for the prestigious Darleane Hoffman, Richard P. Feynman, or J. Robert Oppenheimer Fellowships. For general information refer to the Postdoctoral Program webpage.

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

Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.

No Clearance

Position does not require a security clearance. Selected candidates will be subject to drug testing and other pre-employment background checks.

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. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.

Internal Applicants

Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.

Equal Opportunity

Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to [e-mail] or call (505)-664-6947.