Atmospheric Sciences - Postdoctoral Researcher

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.

We have an opening for an Atmospheric Science-Postdoctoral Researcher to work in the areas of clouds and precipitation with the goal of improving performance of global storm resolving models through evaluation and diagnosis using Department of Energy Atmospheric Radiation Measurement program observations. Research topics may include the mechanistic understanding of clouds, convection, precipitation and land-atmosphere interactions.  

This is a two-year Postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of extension to a maximum of three years.

This position is in the Atmospheric, Earth, and Energy Division which is part of the Physical and Life Sciences Directorate.

This position may offer a hybrid schedule, blending in-person and virtual presence. You may have the flexibility to work from home one or more days per week.

In this role, you will

• Conduct research on the processes governing the transitions in boundary layer turbulence, clouds, convection, precipitation, and land-atmosphere interaction.
• Diagnose and improve global storm resolving models using ground-based and satellite observations and machine learning.
• Perform modeling tasks using cloud resolving models or large-eddy simulations.
• Contribute to and actively participate in the conception, design, and execution of research to address defined problems.
• Pursue independent (but complementary) research interests and interact with a broad spectrum of scientists internally and externally to the Laboratory.
• Collaborate with others in a multidisciplinary team environment to accomplish research goals.
• Publish research results in peer-reviewed scientific or technical journals and present results at external conferences seminars and/or technical meetings.
• Travel as required to coordinate research with collaborators.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• PhD in Atmospheric Sciences or a related field.
• Experience and expertise in one or more of the following areas: cloud microphysics, turbulence and cloud schemes, convective-scale modeling, observational analysis, machine learning
• Ability to perform as an innovative experimentalist with a broad range of experience in experimental design, techniques, and execution.
• Experience developing independent research projects, including publication of peer-reviewed literature.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills to collaborate effectively in a team environment and present and explain technical information.
• Effective initiative and interpersonal skills and ability to work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.

Qualifications we desire

• Experience with deep learning and emulation
• Experience with subgrid-scale parameterization development
• Experience with C++ programing environment
• Experience with land processes and earth system modeling

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.

#LI-Hybrid

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 https://www.llnl.gov/inclusion/our-values

Security Clearance

None required.  However, if your assignment is longer than 179 days cumulatively within a calendar year, you must go through the Personal Identity Verification process.  This process includes completing an online background investigation form and receiving approval of the background check.  

National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)

The 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Section 3112, generally prohibits citizens of China, Russia, Iran and North Korea without dual US citizenship or legal permanent residence from accessing specific non-public areas of national security or nuclear weapons facilities.  The restrictions of NDAA Section 3112 apply to this position.  To be qualified for this position, Candidates must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112.

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.

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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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