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Plasma Physics Post-Doctoral Researcher

Physics World
Los Alamos, NM Full Time
POSTED ON 11/18/2025
AVAILABLE BEFORE 12/17/2025
Job Details

Functional Job Title Plasma Physics Post-Doctoral Researcher

Organization Name: XCP-6/Plasma Theory and Applications, Los Alamos National Laboratory

What You Will Do

Are you looking for an exciting opportunity to do cutting-edge plasma physics research? If the answer is “yes”, we encourage you to learn more about being a postdoctoral researcher in the Plasma Theory and Applications Group (XCP-6). You would join a team that applies and develops theoretical and computational physics tools to model plasmas. Areas of particular interest include high energy density physics; turbulence and/or perturbed plasma flows; and algorithm and model development for plasmas and high energy density science. AI/ML experience is desirable. This research may lead to the design, fielding, and analysis of ICF/HED experiments at the Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE), the National Ignition Facility (NIF), or on the Z pulsed-power facility. Your work would be expected to lead to peer-reviewed publications, as well as to support the national-security programs and mission of the Laboratory.

What You Need

Required Qualifications:

Technical Background

  • A background in theoretical and/or computational plasma physics or closely related field.

Simulations

  • Demonstrated experience in setup, execution and postprocessing physics codes for science or engineering applications.

Journals/Conferences

  • A record of published research in peer-reviewed journals or conference proceedings. Demonstrated ability to communicate research to an interdisciplinary audience orally and in writing.

Clearance

  • Ability to obtain a Q clearance, which typically requires U.S. citizenship.

Education/Experience

  • PhD in physics, engineering, mathematics, or a related field. A candidate may be considered for a postdoctoral position within five years of receiving their Ph.D. or will have completed all Ph.D. requirements by commencement of appointment. Ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment.

Desired Qualifications

Simulations

  • Experience with running large, parallel codes in a high-performance, Unix computing environment.

Analysis of experimental data and/or simulation results

  • Experience in fielding and analysis of experimental data and/or experience in modeling ICF/HED experiments. Practical experience in the usage of AI/ML tools for experimental design and analysis.

Achievement

  • A record of achievement in any of the following: thermonuclear burn physics, MHD, plasma physics (theory, simulation, code development), plasma transport and turbulence, or kinetic plasma effects.

Clearance

  • An active Q clearance would be a plus.

Note To Applicants

Applicants must apply online. The application package should include a CV and a cover letter (2 pages or less) that addresses each of the required and any of the desired job requirements. Your letter and CV should provide contact information for 3 or 4 references who are familiar with your qualifications as related to this job. Applicants with questions may contact Radha Bahukutumbi, radha@lanl.gov. Anyone who meets the required qualifications is encouraged to apply. This position qualifies for benefits including vacation, medical, sick time, parental leave, and retirement.

Essential Job Functions (can perform with or without reasonable accommodation):

Work Environment

Where You Will Work

Benefits

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)

Salary.com Estimation for Plasma Physics Post-Doctoral Researcher in Los Alamos, NM
$125,106 to $157,128
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