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Los Alamos National Security LLC

Computational Astrophysics Postdoctoral Researcher

Los Alamos National Security LLC, Los Alamos, New Mexico, us, 87545


What You Will DoPostdocs in the CTA apply semi-analytical models, high performance multi-physics simulations, data analysis, and machine learning to solve critical problems across a wide variety of astrophysical topics. These include supernovae and kilonovae explosion mechanisms and transients, stellar evolution, gamma-ray bursts, accretion, stellar evolution, planetary physics, and cosmology. CTA works with LANL and external collaborators to tie these simulations with ground and satellite-based missions including HAWC, NuSTAR, LIGO, LISA, JWST, EHT, and ZTF. Together the CTA strives to apply the computational innovations from astrophysics to other laboratory programs including The Advanced Simulation and Computing Program, Office of Experimental Sciences, and Global Security.What You NeedMinimum Job Requirements:Education:

Completion of a PhD in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Physics, Mathematics, Engineering, or related field within the last five years or expected completion within the current academic year.Desired Qualifications:Technical Knowledge:Knowledge and experience in developing, applying, or analyzing numerical simulations to advance the understanding of astrophysics.Expertise in one or more of the following areas: hydrodynamics, radiation transport, reaction networks, numerical relativity, atomic/molecular physics, nuclear physics, plasma physics, data analysis, or machine learning.Experience with compiled or interpreted programming languages, for example: C, C++, Fortran, Julia, and/or Python.Technical Communication:

Written and oral technical communication skills as evidenced by peer-reviewed journal publications and/or presentations at professional conferences.High-Performance Computing:

Experience in working in a high-performance computing environment. This includes familiarity with running, developing, or post-processing simulations and data on large systems or experience in programming for GPUs and multi-core systems with MPI, CUDA, Kokkos, OpenMP, etc.Collaboration:

Experience working as a productive member of a team, including the demonstrated ability to develop solutions for complex problems while effectively networking with peers.Work Location:

The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.Salary:

Competitive salaries are based on the date the PhD degree requirements were completed or the degree was awarded. Starting salary for a new graduate is currently $92,000.Note to Applicants:

Inquiries should be sent to

CTA_recruitment@lanl.gov . When applying online, please include the following files with your application: a CV (please include month/year of PhD); three letters of reference (may be submitted online by applicant or emailed by letter writer to

CTA_apply@lanl.gov ); and a detailed cover letter describing the candidate's interest in working with the CTA, mentor(s) the candidate is interested in collaborating with, and how they satisfy the requirements for the position.Fellowship Opportunities:

Candidates may be considered for a Director's Fellowship, CNLS Fellowship, Chick Keller Fellowship, or Nicholas C. Metropolis Fellowship. Postdoctoral positions are for 2 years, with a potential for a renewal for a third year. Minimum salary for a postdoctoral researcher is $92,000 and can increase with post-PhD experience and fellowships.For full consideration for the Metropolis Fellowship please apply by December 17, 2023. For all other positions apply by January 15, 2023 for full consideration.Where You Will WorkThe Center for Theoretical Astrophysics (CTA) is seeking candidates for multiple postdoctoral positions in theoretical and computational astrophysics. The CTA consists of a diverse group of professionals from across LANL organizations with an interest in conducting and promoting cross-cutting astrophysics research at LANL. The CTA also connects methods and algorithms from astrophysics to applications in a variety of laboratory missions. With over 50 staff, students, and postdocs, the CTA encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration across a wide variety of astrophysical topics and provides a broad expertise and a strongly supportive community. The CTA is committed to creating and maintaining a supportive and inclusive environment.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 networkDental and vision insuranceFree basic life and disability insurancePaid childbirth and parental leaveAward-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)Learning opportunities and tuition assistanceFlexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)Onsite gyms and wellness programsExtensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)Additional DetailsDirective 206.2

- Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.Position does not require a security clearance. Selected candidates will be subject to drug testing and other pre-employment background checks.New-Employment Drug Test:

The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.Equal Opportunity:

Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer and supports a diverse and inclusive workforce. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation or preference, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to

applyhelp@lanl.gov

or call 1-505-665-4444 option 1.

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