Postdoctoral Research Associate

Postdoctoral Research Associate

24 Dec 2025
New Mexico, Losalamos, 87544 Losalamos USA

Postdoctoral Research Associate

What You Will DoThe Physics of Condensed Matter and Complex Systems (T-4) group at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is seeking exceptional candidates for postdoctoral positions in modeling frustrated systems. Successful applicants will engage in cutting-edge research on models of frustrated systems exhibiting complex emergent behaviors. These models will be applied across various platforms, including nanomagnets, colloids, liquid crystals, mechanical metamaterials, and quantum machines. This research often involves collaboration with experimental groups at LANL, such as the National High Magnetic Field Lab, the Center for Integrated Nanotechnologies, or MPA Quantum, as well as with external collaborators. LANL offers a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment with opportunities for organizing scientific workshops, attending conferences, and engaging in collaborative research. We are particularly interested in candidates with outstanding potential who may qualify for prestigious, LANL-funded fellowships intended to provide the opportunity for fully independent research.What You NeedMinimum Job Requirements:Education/Experience:Candidates must hold a PhD in Physics. PhDs in related fields, such as Applied Mathematics, Materials Science, or Computer Science, may also be considered, depending on the candidate's overall research background. Per LANL requirements, the PhD must have been completed within the last five years or be near completion.Required Skills:

A strong and broad foundation in Physics, Mathematics, and Complex Systems.

A proven record of independent, creative, and interdisciplinary research, showcasing the ability to apply the same abstract concepts across diverse fields

Flexibility in employing a variety of research tools, including analytical methods, numerical simulations, and quantum machines, with a willingness to learn new techniques and disciplines as needed.

The ability to collaborate effectively with experimentalist groups.

Desired Skills (at least one of the following)

Experience in classical Monte Carlo methods and/or Quantum Monte Carlo methods, and other quantum simulation techniques for correlated spin systems.

Experience in use of Quantum Machines such as D-wave systems and QuEra.

While accreditation specifics are less critical, the breadth and creativity of your research accomplishments will weigh heavily in the selection process.Note to Applicants:For more information on Postdoc program at LANL, please refer to https://www.lanl.gov/careers/career-options/postdoctoral-research/postdoc-program/index.phpCandidates may be considered for a Director's Fellowship and outstanding candidates may be considered for the prestigious Marie Curie, Richard P. Feynman, J. Robert Oppenheimer, or Frederick Reines Fellowships. For general program information, refer to the Postdoc Program web page https://www.lanl.gov/careers/career-options/postdoctoral-research/postdoc-program/index.phpContact: Dr. Cristiano Nisoli (cristiano@lanl.gov)LocationThis position will be physically located in Los Alamos, New Mexico.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 $94,500. For more information go to Postdoc Program website at https://www.lanl.gov/careers/career-options/postdoctoral-research/index.php .Where You Will WorkLocated 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 network§ Dental and vision insurance§ Free basic life and disability insurance§ Paid childbirth and parental leave§ Award-winning 401(k) (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)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.No Clearance: 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.Internal Applicants: Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.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, 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 1-505-664-6947 option 2 and then option 3.

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