High Energy Density Science (HEDS) Center Postdoctoral Fellowship

We have an opening for a High Energy Density Science (HEDS) Center Postdoctoral Fellow that will allow you to take your skills to the next level and apply them to solving the nation's most pressing national security problems. The purpose of this fellowship is to pursue groundbreaking science and to stimulate ideas for cross fertilization. The HEDS Center Fellow will do creative and independent research in an aspect of High Energy Density (HED) science relevant to the competencies at LLNL. Fellows participate in experimental or theoretical work at LLNL, and will have access to LLNL's extensive computing facilities, talent pool, specialized laboratory facilities and field equipment.

The HEDS Center at LLNL is a focal point for connecting experts around the world with the extensive experimental and computational capabilities at LLNL. The Center’s mission is to strengthen fundamental research collaborations in the field of HED science between LLNL and the academic community. Details about LLNL’s High Energy Density Science Center may be found at: https://heds-center.llnl.gov

Applicants will need to submit their CV, research proposal, three references for letters of recommendation, application summary, and transcripts. Detailed information and proposal and summary templates can be found here. Once you submit your application, you can go back and make updates. The deadline for application is October 15, 2024. Reference letters must be received by October 22, 2024.

Depending on your assignment, this position may offer a hybrid schedule, blending in-person and virtual presence. You may have the flexibility to work from home one or more days per week.

You will

• Conduct research and/or development in one or more of the following areas:  plasma physics, fusion energy science, astrophysics, hydrodynamics, nuclear physics, high pressure science, warm dense matter and hot dense matter physics, strongly coupled Coulomb systems, lasers, laser-driven dynamic compression, matter and/or materials at extreme conditions, interiors of planets and exoplanets, giant impacts, or related field
• Organize, analyze, and present data from research.
• Pursue independent (but complementary) research interests and interact with exceptional scientists both internal and external to the Laboratory.
• Collaborate with others in a multidisciplinary team environment to accomplish research goals.
• Publish research results in peer-reviewed scientific or technical journals and present results at external conferences seminars and/or technical meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• PhD in nuclear physics, plasma physics, hydrodynamics, astrophysics, lasers, High Energy Density science, warm dense matter, hot dense matter, strongly coupled coulomb systems, high pressure science, laser-driven dynamic compression, matter and/or materials at extreme conditions, interiors of planets and exoplanets, giant impacts, or related field.
• Experience in experimental, computational or theoretical physics in one of the following areas:  nuclear physics, plasma physics, hydrodynamics, astrophysics, lasers, High Energy Density Science, warm dense matter, hot dense matter, strongly coupled coulomb systems, high pressure science, laser-driven dynamic compression, matter and/or materials at extreme conditions, interiors of planets and exoplanets, giant impacts, or related field.
• Demonstrated creativity, exceptional ability, and proven accomplishments in applicant's area of specialization.
• Demonstrated ability as an innovative theorist and/or experimentalist with a broad range of experience in design, techniques and execution.
• Demonstrated ability to develop independent research projects as demonstrated through publication of peer-reviewed literature
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills to collaborate effectively in a team environment and present and explain technical 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.

Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?

• Included in 2024 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
• Flexible Benefits Package
• 401(k)
• Relocation Assistance
• Education Reimbursement Program
• Flexible schedules (*depending on project needs)
• Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accountability (IDEA) - visit https://www.llnl.gov/diversity
• Our core beliefs - visit https://www.llnl.gov/diversity/our-values 
• Employee engagement - visit https://www.llnl.gov/diversity/employee-engagement

Security Clearance

None required.  However, if your assignment is longer than 179 days cumulatively within a calendar year, you must go through the Personal Identity Verification process.  This process includes completing an online background investigation form and receiving approval of the background check.  (This process does not apply to foreign nationals.) 

Pre-Employment Drug Test

External applicant(s) selected for this position must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.

Wireless and Medical Devices

Per the Department of Energy (DOE), Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory must meet certain restrictions with the use and/or possession of mobile devices in Limited Areas. Depending on your job duties, you may be required to work in a Limited Area where you are not permitted to have a personal and/or laboratory mobile device in your possession.  This includes, but not limited to cell phones, tablets, fitness devices, wireless headphones, and other Bluetooth/wireless enabled devices.  

If you use a medical device, which pairs with a mobile device, you must still follow the rules concerning the mobile device in individual sections within Limited Areas.  Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities require separate approval. Hearing aids without wireless capabilities or wireless that has been disabled are allowed in Limited Areas, Secure Space and Transit/Buffer Space within buildings.

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To learn more about recruitment scams: https://www.llnl.gov/sites/www/files/2023-05/LLNL-Job-Fraud-Statement-Updated-4.26.23.pdf

Equal Employment Opportunity

We are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to providing all with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status, age, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.

We invite you to review the Equal Employment Opportunity posters which include EEO is the Law and Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision.

Reasonable Accommodation

Our goal is to create an accessible and inclusive experience for all candidates applying and interviewing at the Laboratory.  If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please use our online form to submit a request. 

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