Research Assistant

Overview Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in science and engineering on behalf of national security. The Applied Acoustics Team (MPA-11) is looking for a graduate student with strong experimental and data analysis skills. We are seeking a highly motivated individual to join a multidisciplinary research team and contribute to the development of an acoustics-based sensor for enhanced geothermal systems. This work involves complex experimental work, as well as significant data analysis and signal processing. Our current work focuses on applied research for material characterization (solids, liquids, gases), acoustical imaging, nonlinear acoustics, acoustic separation of two-phase systems, detection of corrosion and other defects in materials and acoustically engineered materials. The work involves the development of new techniques, customized instrumentation and validation of measurements in the field. The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to the development of new sensing technologies, patents and publications. There will be opportunities to work in a wide range of areas, to innovate, and present work to sponsors and conferences. What You Will Do Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in science and engineering on behalf of national security. The Applied Acoustics Team (MPA-11) is looking for a graduate student with strong experimental and data analysis skills. We are seeking a highly motivated individual to join a multidisciplinary research team and contribute to the development of an acoustics-based sensor for enhanced geothermal systems. This work involves complex experimental work, as well as significant data analysis and signal processing. Our current work focuses on applied research for material characterization (solids, liquids, gases), acoustical imaging, nonlinear acoustics, acoustic separation of two-phase systems, detection of corrosion and other defects in materials and acoustically engineered materials. The work involves the development of new techniques, customized instrumentation and validation of measurements in the field. The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to the development of new sensing technologies, patents and publications. There will be opportunities to work in a wide range of areas, to innovate, and present work to sponsors and conferences. What You Need Minimum Job Requirements: B.S in Applied Physics, Engineering, Materials Science or a closely related field, earned within the last five years or soon to be completed Currently enrolled in a graduate program in Applied Physics, Engineering, Materials Science, Geosciences, or a closely related field Strong technical background in one or more of the following areas: signal processing, advanced data analysis, finite element analysis (especially COMSOL), ultrasonic techniques, nondestructive testing, machine learning, enhanced geothermal systems Fluency in one or more computer programming languages (e.g., Matlab, Python, Visual Basic, C++, LabVIEW, etc.) Hands-on experience designing and conducting experiments Demonstrated experience in conducting original scientific research through peer-reviewed publication record Experience with complex experimental design/execution and associated data analysis Demonstrated capability to act both creatively and independently to accomplish tasks given by senior personnel Education/Experience Desired Qualifications: Knowledge of electronics and typical laboratory test instruments, such as function generators, oscilloscopes, piezoelectric transducers, DAQs, microphones, hydrophones, etc. Experience in ultrasonic flaw detection, acoustic imaging, or acoustic characterization of materials Ability to adapt to new requirements for projects and be flexible to learn new areas of research as needed Work Environment 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. Additional Details Directive 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. 426.2: This position is subject to DOE Order 426.2, Personnel Selection, Training, and Qualification Requirements for DOE Nuclear Facilities, which establishes entry-level requirements to ensure candidates selected for specific positions can successfully perform the requirements of the job. 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. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as 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, state, and local 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 View email address on click.appcast.io or call View phone number on click.appcast.io opt. 3. How to Apply Follow the instructions below if you have ever had an employee Z number, been a contractor, or received Los Alamos Lab insurance coverage to activate your account: Select the Click Here button if you have been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage. Please enter only your first and last name and current email address (an email with your validation code will be sent to you) to activate the account currently in our system. Enter your validation code as described in the email you receive and complete the 3-page registration form. Your account is now active, and you can apply for jobs or save to your basket. Important: Enter the validation code within 15 days to activate your account or your account will be deactivated. Follow the instructions below if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to create an account: Select the Register button if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to Create an Account. From here, you will establish an account with username and password. How to Apply: Login to Your Account to Complete the Application Process Click the Vacancy Name number (in blue) to view any job's details. Click Apply or Add to Basket to apply later. Tip: To apply for a job or save your basket, you must have a LANL jobs account. If you experience any technical issues, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for assistance. #J-18808-Ljbffr