Laser-Based Mass Spectrometry - Postdoctoral Researcher

Company Description

Join us and make YOUR mark on the World!

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) has turned bold ideas into world-changing impact advancing science and technology to strengthen U.S. security and promote global stability.

Our mission spans four critical national security areas nuclear deterrence, threat preparedness, energy security, and multi-domain defense empowering teams to take on the toughest challenges of today and tomorrow. With a culture built on innovation and operational excellence, LLNL is a place where your expertise can make a real impact.

Job Description

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to develop resonance ionization mass spectrometry (RIMS) including commissioning a new RIMS instrument for nuclear forensics, cosmochemistry, and earth sciences. You will work with a group of geoscientists, radiochemists, and other scientists on method development, procedure optimization, sample analysis, and data interpretation aimed at understanding detection, analysis, and isotope systematics. You will participate in all phases of research from project development through implementation, data analysis and interpretation, and documentation and presentation of results. You will also collaborate with a larger group of researchers using a range of state-of-the-art mass spectrometers (noble gas mass spectrometry, ICPMS) and microanalytical instruments (SIMS, EPMA) in related application areas. This position is in the Trace Isotope and Element Signatures Group within the Nuclear and Chemical Sciences Division.

This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work.

You will

• Develop and apply new methods of isotopic and elemental analysis.
• Propose and develop new applications for RIMS; for example, laser spectroscopy, environmental chemistry, and isotope geology.
• Conduct both experimental and routine analyses of a variety of natural and manufactured materials to demonstrate existing and new capabilities; communicate results in oral and written reports.
• Collaborate with scientists and technical personnel to carry out RIMS analysis and data interpretation for Earth science, nuclear nonproliferation, and nuclear forensics applications.
• Participate in development of research plans and proposals.
• 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.

Qualifications

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. Citizenship.
• PhD in a field of earth, chemical, or physical sciences having a close relationship to the technical capabilities and applications listed above.
• Experience in one or more of the following: RIMS, LA-ICP-MS, SIMS, noble gas mass spectrometry. Including, demonstrated understanding of data reduction and analysis for these techniques, including integration of data streams from multiple instruments, such as noble gas and trace element data.
• Demonstrated ability to operate, maintain, design, and construct laboratory equipment.
• Experience in isotope ratio analysis of a range of elements in a variety of natural and synthetic materials.
• Willingness to work with radioactive and radiologically controlled materials in accordance with approved procedures, training requirements, and safety controls.
• Proficient written and verbal communication skills, and ability to develop and carry out independent research as demonstrated through publication of peer-reviewed literature.
• A record of innovation in experimental design, techniques, and execution, and the ability to work independently as well as in multidisciplinary research teams.

Qualifications We Desire

• Experience in uncertainty quantification for mass-spectrometric data using statistical and/or machine learning methods.
• Experience with software development for hardware control, data acquisition, and data analysis in commonly used languages including Python, MATLAB, and/or Labview.
• Expertise with ultra-high-vacuum system development, operations and maintenance.
• Experience working with radioactive and radiologically controlled materials in accordance with approved procedures, training requirements, and safety controls.

Pay Range

$123,048 Annually

This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An employee’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs.

Additional Information

#LI-Onsite

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 2026 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
• Flexible Benefits Package
• 401(k)
• Relocation Assistance
• Education Reimbursement Program
• Flexible schedules (*depending on project needs)
• Our values - visit

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.

Wireless and Medical Devices

Per the Department of Energy (DOE), Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory must meet certain restrictions with the use and/or possession of mobile devices in Limited Areas. Depending on your job duties, you may be required to work in a Limited Area where you are not permitted to have a personal and/or laboratory mobile device in your possession. This includes, but not limited to cell phones, tablets, fitness devices, wireless headphones, and other Bluetooth/wireless enabled devices.

If you use a medical device, which pairs with a mobile device, you must still follow the rules concerning the mobile device in individual sections within Limited Areas. Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities require separate approval. Hearing aids without wireless capabilities or wireless that has been disabled are allowed in Limited Areas, Secure Space and Transit/Buffer Space within buildings.

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Organization: Physical and Life SciencesCategory: Postdoctoral/FellowshipEmployee Referral Bonus: Not applicableJob Code 1: PDS.1 Post-Dr Research Staff 1Pre-Employment Drug Test: Required for external applicant(s) selected for this position (includes testing for use of marijuana)Pre-Placement Medical Exam: Not applicableSecurity Clearance: Anticipated DOE Q clearance (requires U.S. citizenship and a federal background investigation)Position Type: Post Doctoral