What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Plasma & Space Physics Researcher (Scientist 3/4 position at Los Alamos National Laboratory?
What You Will Do
This position will be filled at either the Scientist 3/Scientist 4 level, depending on the skills of the selected candidate. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level.
Scientist 3 $125,200 - $211,300
The Applied Mathematics and Plasma Physics Group (T-5) at Los Alamos National Laboratory is a world leader in advancing the frontiers of plasma and space science through a powerful combination of theory, modeling, and high-performance computing. Our group develops cutting-edge algorithms and multiscale simulation tools to tackle fundamental and applied challenges in plasma physics, space physics (with a focus on magnetospheric and heliospheric science) and laboratory plasma phenomena. We foster a highly collaborative environment where cross-disciplinary research thrives, enabling breakthroughs in both fundamental understanding and mission-driven applications.
T-5 maintains strong partnerships with a broad set of sponsors, including the Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science and National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), NASA, the Department of Defense (DoD), and other federal agencies. Our research supports national security, space exploration, and energy innovation, while advancing the scientific foundations of plasma physics. By joining our group, you will contribute to an internationally recognized team that shapes the future of computational and theoretical plasma physics and delivers impactful science for both discovery and national missions.
T-5 is seeking a highly qualified candidate for a Scientist 3 position to lead research in computational and theoretical space and plasma physics. Primary research areas include magnetospheric and heliospheric dynamics, radiation belt physics, wave-particle interactions, plasma turbulence and plasma-material interactions. Candidates with expertise in related areas of plasma physics and high-performance computational modeling are also encouraged to apply.
The hired scientist will be expected to contribute to ongoing research efforts in these areas and to build an independent research portfolio that complements and strengthens the group's mission. This includes leading and supporting proposal development for both internal and external sponsors. The candidate will work in a highly interdisciplinary environment with extensive collaborative opportunities, including the mentoring and recruitment of students, postdocs, and early-career staff. A successful applicant will be expected to publish in peer-reviewed journals, present their research at leading conferences and workshops, and work closely with colleagues, program managers, and sponsors to develop and sustain innovative research programs.
Scientist 4 $150,300 - $260,800
In addition to what was outlined at the lower level, at the Scientist 4 level, the candidate is expected to provide recognized leadership in the field of space and plasma physics and to play a central role in shaping the strategic direction of the group's research portfolio. This includes developing large, multidisciplinary proposals, building and sustaining strong collaborations across LANL and with external partners, and serving as a principal investigator for major research efforts. The Scientist 4 hire will also be expected to mentor junior staff and postdocs, guide group-level initiatives, and represent LANL in national and international scientific communities.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
Additional Job Requirements for Scientist 4
In addition to the requirements outlined above, qualification at the higher level requires:
Education/Experience at lower level: Position requires a Master's degree in a STEM field from an accredited college or university and 6 years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
Education/Experience at higher level: Position requires a Master's degree in a STEM field from an accredited college or university and 12 years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
Desired Qualifications:
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.
Position commitment: Regular appointment employees are required to serve a period of continuous service in their current position in order to be eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the time required, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. The position commitment for this position is 1 year.
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 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.
Regular position: Term status Laboratory employees applying for regular-status positions are converted to regular status.
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 applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505)-664-6947 opt. 3.
This position will be filled at either the Scientist 3/Scientist 4 level, depending on the skills of the selected candidate. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level.
Scientist 3 $125,200 - $211,300
The Applied Mathematics and Plasma Physics Group (T-5) at Los Alamos National Laboratory is a world leader in advancing the frontiers of plasma and space science through a powerful combination of theory, modeling, and high-performance computing. Our group develops cutting-edge algorithms and multiscale simulation tools to tackle fundamental and applied challenges in plasma physics, space physics (with a focus on magnetospheric and heliospheric science) and laboratory plasma phenomena. We foster a highly collaborative environment where cross-disciplinary research thrives, enabling breakthroughs in both fundamental understanding and mission-driven applications.
T-5 maintains strong partnerships with a broad set of sponsors, including the Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science and National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), NASA, the Department of Defense (DoD), and other federal agencies. Our research supports national security, space exploration, and energy innovation, while advancing the scientific foundations of plasma physics. By joining our group, you will contribute to an internationally recognized team that shapes the future of computational and theoretical plasma physics and delivers impactful science for both discovery and national missions.
T-5 is seeking a highly qualified candidate for a Scientist 3 position to lead research in computational and theoretical space and plasma physics. Primary research areas include magnetospheric and heliospheric dynamics, radiation belt physics, wave-particle interactions, plasma turbulence and plasma-material interactions. Candidates with expertise in related areas of plasma physics and high-performance computational modeling are also encouraged to apply.
The hired scientist will be expected to contribute to ongoing research efforts in these areas and to build an independent research portfolio that complements and strengthens the group's mission. This includes leading and supporting proposal development for both internal and external sponsors. The candidate will work in a highly interdisciplinary environment with extensive collaborative opportunities, including the mentoring and recruitment of students, postdocs, and early-career staff. A successful applicant will be expected to publish in peer-reviewed journals, present their research at leading conferences and workshops, and work closely with colleagues, program managers, and sponsors to develop and sustain innovative research programs.
Scientist 4 $150,300 - $260,800
In addition to what was outlined at the lower level, at the Scientist 4 level, the candidate is expected to provide recognized leadership in the field of space and plasma physics and to play a central role in shaping the strategic direction of the group's research portfolio. This includes developing large, multidisciplinary proposals, building and sustaining strong collaborations across LANL and with external partners, and serving as a principal investigator for major research efforts. The Scientist 4 hire will also be expected to mentor junior staff and postdocs, guide group-level initiatives, and represent LANL in national and international scientific communities.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
- Expertise in space science or plasma physics as demonstrated by peer-reviewed publications
- Demonstrated success in applying for proposal driven funding
- Experience mentoring students and/or postdocs
Additional Job Requirements for Scientist 4
In addition to the requirements outlined above, qualification at the higher level requires:
- Experience interacting with managers and leaders outside of your organization
- Project or team management experience
- Experience mentoring early career scientists beyond the postdoctoral level
Education/Experience at lower level: Position requires a Master's degree in a STEM field from an accredited college or university and 6 years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
Education/Experience at higher level: Position requires a Master's degree in a STEM field from an accredited college or university and 12 years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
Desired Qualifications:
- Ability to obtain a DOE Q Clearance
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.
Position commitment: Regular appointment employees are required to serve a period of continuous service in their current position in order to be eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the time required, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. The position commitment for this position is 1 year.
Note to Applicants:
- Contact Wesley Even (even@lanl.gov), GIan Luca Delzanno (delzanno@lanl.gov) or Melanie Vigil (mlvigil@lanl.gov ) for more details about this position
- To receive full consideration for the position please submit a complete application online through the Los Alamos National Laboratory jobs portal. A complete application includes a current curriculum vitae, contact information for three references, and a comprehensive cover letter that addresses the key requirements of the position.
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
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.
Regular position: Term status Laboratory employees applying for regular-status positions are converted to regular status.
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 applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505)-664-6947 opt. 3.
Salary : $125,200 - $211,300
