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Experimental Plasma Physics Postdoc

Los Alamos National Laboratory
Los Alamos, NM Full Time
POSTED ON 11/14/2025
AVAILABLE BEFORE 12/22/2025
What You Will Do

The P-4 Thermonuclear Plasma Physics Group is seeking candidates for a postdoctoral position in experimental high-energy-density (HED) physics.

The P-4 Plasma Physics group conducts a broad range of research, including hydrodynamics, radiation transport, opacity, radiation hydrodynamics, inertial confinement fusion (ICF), magneto-inertial fusion, and magnetized fusion energy in support of the laboratory. We perform experiments on large- and small-scale experimental facilities, including the National Ignition Facility (NIF), the OMEGA laser facility at the University of Rochester, the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS), the Advanced Photon Source, and other facilities around the world.

For this position, we will try to match candidate skills with available projects. Depending on the project, this position will include fielding experiments at OMEGA and/or NIF, data analysis, and diagnostic development in support of our ICF and HED experiments.

What You Need

Minimum Job Requirements:

  • Ability to carry out independent and collaborative research in experimental physics or a very closely related discipline.
  • Ability to communicate both technically and interpersonally both orally and in writing. Examples include but are not limited to journal presentations, technical reports, oral or poster conference presentations, public speaking, and classes taught.
  • Demonstrate a commitment to quality research, technical and scientific excellence, professional integrity, and personal initiative.
  • Ability and willingness to obtain a U.S. DOE Q clearance

Education/Experience:

A Ph.D. in Physics, Engineering, or a closely related field, completed within the last five years.

Desired Qualifications:

  • Familiarity with approaches and challenges of High Energy Density Physics (HED) and Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF)
  • Experience using laser or pulsed-power driver facilities to conduct ICF or HED experiments.
  • Familiarity with plasma diagnostics, including, but not limited to, imaging, spectroscopy, interferometry, or nuclear measurements.
  • Experience with data analysis using tools such as MATLAB, Python, or machine learning

Work Schedule: This position may require 24/7 coverage, which could involve working a shift/weekend schedule. Employees maybe eligible for shift differential pay when assigned by their manager. Shift/weekend assignments are at the discretion of the manager.

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.

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 maternity and parental leave
  • Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
  • Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
  • Flexible schedules and time off (paid sick, vacation, 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.

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.

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 applicable 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 a disability accommodation, email applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505) 664-6947, opt. 3.

Instructions on How to Activate/Create a LANL Jobs Account:

Follow the instructions below if you have ever had an employee Z number, been a contractor, or received Los Alamos Lab insurance coverage to activate your account:

  • Select the Click Here button if you have been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage.
  • Please enter only your first and last name and current email address (an email with your validation code will be sent to you) to activate the account currently in our system.
  • Enter your validation code as described in the email you receive and complete the 3-page registration form. Your account is now active, and you can apply for jobs or save to your basket. Important: Enter the validation code within 15 days to activate your account or your account will be deactivated

Follow the instructions below if you if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to create an account:

  • Select the Register button if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to Create an Account.
  • From here, you will establish an account with username and password

How to Apply: How to Apply: Login to Your Account to Complete the Application Process

Click the Vacancy Name number (in blue) to view any job's details.

  • Click Apply or Add to Basket to apply later. Tip: To apply for a job or save your basket, you must have a LANL jobs account.

If you experience any technical issues, please email applyhelp@lanl.gov for assistance.

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