Nuclear Forensics Postdoctoral Research Associate

$94,500 - $94,500/Yr

Los Alamos National Laboratory - Los Alamos, NM

Full-time - Entry Level

Los Alamos, NM

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The Nuclear Forensics Postdoctoral Research Associate position at Los Alamos National Laboratory involves developing and implementing new methods for purifying trace-level decay progeny from nuclear materials, particularly focusing on age dating nuclear materials using granddaughter radionuclides. The role aims to enhance nuclear forensics capabilities through improved purification methods and statistical modeling of radiochronometry signatures. The successful candidate will collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team and apply principles of actinide separation, low-level analytical chemistry, mass spectrometry, and radiochronometry.

Responsibilities

• Develop and enact new methods to purify trace-level decay progeny from nuclear materials.
• Focus on age dating nuclear materials using granddaughter radionuclides (226Ra and 227Ac).
• Explore statistical modeling of radiochronometry signatures to understand nuclear material processing histories.
• Collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team to apply principles of actinide separation and low-level analytical chemistry.

Requirements

• PhD in chemistry, geology/geochemistry, nuclear physics, or a related field within the past five years, or soon to be completed.
• Experience in at least three of the following areas: analytical chemistry, geochemistry, actinide or nuclear chemistry, nuclear physics, inorganic chemistry, separation chemistry, and/or reduction and analysis of elemental/isotopic data.
• Demonstrated commitment to quality research and professional integrity.
• Strong oral and written communication skills as evidenced by publications and presentations.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience working in a clean laboratory environment.
• Experience with nuclear material radiochronometry or geochronology.
• Experience in non-destructive and/or destructive measurements of nuclear material.
• Familiarity with isotope dilution techniques and inorganic mass spectrometry techniques such as ICP-MS or TIMS.
• Scientific programming experience.
• Ability to obtain a Q clearance.

Benefits

• PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with a large nationwide network.
• Dental and vision insurance.
• Free basic life and disability insurance.
• Paid childbirth and parental leave.
• 401(k) with 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).