Laser-Based Mass Spectrometry - Postdoctoral Researcher

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to develop resonance ionization mass spectrometry (RIMS) including establishing a new RIMS instrument for nuclear forensics and cosmochemistry. You will use your problem-solving skills to find solutions to challenging questions, as well as build and tinker with complex instruments. In addition to RIMS, we have a suite of state-of-the-art mass spectrometers and microanalytical instruments such as SIMS, SEM, EPMA that are available for your independent research. The LLNL RIMS lab is part of a new NASA Planetary Science Enabling Facility that hosts researchers analyzing extraterrestrial materials such as meteorites. This position is in the Trace Isotope and Element Signatures Group in the Nuclear and Chemical Sciences Division, within the Physical and Life Sciences Directorate.

You will

• Work with a team to establish and commission a new generation of RIMS instruments.
• Develop and apply new methods of isotopic and elemental analysis for application to nuclear forensics and cosmochemistry.
• Find and develop new applications for RIMS; for example laser spectroscopy, environmental chemistry, isotope geology.
• Conduct analysis of real-world and simulated materials to demonstrate new capabilities, communicate those results in written reports and presentations.
• Help to improve and maintain current and future RIMS instruments and laser systems.
• Publish research results in peer-reviewed scientific or technical journals.
• Present results at external conferences, seminars, and/or technical meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. Citizenship.
• PhD in physical chemistry, experimental physics, analytical chemistry, or related field.
• Experience in one or more of the following: laser systems, ion sputtering and/or laser ablation, ion optical systems, and data acquisition systems.
• Experience in designing and/or building laboratory equipment.
• Familiarity with the field of mass spectrometry and understanding of the current state of knowledge in this field.
• Ability to develop independent research projects as demonstrated through publication of peer-reviewed literature.
• Ability as an innovative experimentalist with experience in experimental design, techniques, and execution, and the ability to work independently as well as in multidisciplinary research teams.
• Proficient written and verbal communication skills necessary to deliver presentations and prepare written publications, and reports.

Qualifications We Desire

• Experience preparing and analyzing environmental and anthropogenic samples for radionuclides and stable isotopes ranging in concentrations from trace to high-level.
• Publication record in peer-reviewed literature with experience presenting research results to a large audience.
• Experience in statistical analysis applied to uncertainty quantification.
• Experience programming in Python or a similar environment for hardware control, data acquisition, or data analysis.

#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

This position requires a Department of Energy (DOE) Q-level clearance.  If you are selected, we will initiate a Federal background investigation to determine if you meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information or matter. Also, all L or Q cleared employees are subject to random drug testing.  Q-level clearance requires U.S. citizenship. 

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.

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