Design Physics - Postdoctoral Researcher

LLNL$135K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Ability to secure a U.S. DOE X-level security clearance (U.S. citizenship required)
  • PhD in a related physical science, engineering, materials science, or applied mathematics
  • Demonstrated success in numerical simulations and theoretical application
  • Experience in developing innovative scientific solutions
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills for interdisciplinary collaboration

Responsibilities

  • Apply LLNL-developed hydrodynamic code for material response predictions
  • Collaborate on design and analysis of explosively driven ring experiments
  • Investigate complex aluminum alloys and other engineering metals
  • Work with model developers to evaluate material models
  • Assist in proposal development and technical documentation
  • Create new tools and algorithms for experimental design
  • Conduct high-performance computing research to tackle scientific problems
  • Publish and present research findings at various technical events

Benefits

  • Possibility of a hybrid work schedule after the probationary period
  • Opportunity to participate in groundbreaking research in material science
  • Access to collaboration with diverse teams across disciplines
  • Potential for postdoctoral appointment extension up to three years
Full Job Description
Job Description

We have an opening for a Design Physics - Postdoctoral Researcher. We invite PhD graduates
with expertise in computational and/or experimental physics (with an emphasis on dynamic
behavior of materials) to apply for a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship. The successful
candidate will work with simulation and experimental teams to design, model, conduct, and
analyze data from ring and cylinder experiments on aluminum alloys under extreme loading
conditions. The work will examine how geometry, microstructure, internal defects, and shockgenerated
damage influence metal fracture and fragmentation. Additional responsibilities may
include supporting proposal development, comparing aluminum grades, conducting sensitivity
studies, calibrating material models, and interpreting experimental radiography and
postmortem data. This position will be in the Strategic Deterrence Directorate.

This position may offer a hybrid schedule, which includes the flexibility to work from home one
or more days per week, after a probationary period. The specifics of the hybrid schedule,
including the exact number of days required in the office and virtual work options, may vary
based on the needs of the team and the organization.

You will
  • Learn and apply LLNL-developed hydrodynamic code to assess loading conditions andpredict material response in published experiments.
  • Collaborate on the design, execution, and analysis of explosively driven ringexperiments.
  • Gain exposure to complex alloys, in addition to common engineering grades ofaluminum and stainless steel.
  • Collaborate with material strength and damage model developers to implement andevaluate various models for suitability.
  • Help develop proposal concepts, figures, and supporting technical arguments.
  • Develop new tools, algorithms, and/or design new experiments to further our scientificunderstanding.
  • Conduct research using massively parallel computer platforms to solve scientificchallenges.
  • Publish research results in peer-reviewed scientific or technical journals, and presentresults at external conferences, seminars, and/or technical meetings.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE X-level security clearance which requires U.S. citizenship.
  • PhD in a related physical science, engineering, materials science, or applied mathematics discipline.
  • Significant accomplishments in numerical simulations and modeling, and/or the application of theoretical techniques.
  • Experience developing innovative solutions to scientific and technical problems.
  • Proficient verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment and present and explain technical information.

Qualifications We Desire
  • Experience with computational mechanics, high strain rate behavior of metals, or dynamic failure modeling.
  • Familiarity with fracture, damage evolution, fragmentation, or shock loading.
  • Interest and enthusiasm for understanding the broader mission at LLNL and in supporting it through experimental platform development.

Please include a personalized cover letter with your application, highlighting your qualifications and why you're interested in this position.

This is a Postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of extension to a maximum of three years, open to those who have been awarded a PhD at time of hire date.

Pay Range

$135,768 Annually

Additional Information

#LI-Hybrid

Position Information

This is a Postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of extension to a maximum of three years, open to those who have been awarded a PhD at time of hire date.

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