Microanalytical Mass Spectrometry and Microscopy - 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 are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to develop novel, correlative microanalytical techniques for forensic characterization of nuclear materials, with a focus on developing approaches for nuclear materials characterization across a range of spatial scales. This position leverages LLNL’s state-of-the-art suite of secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS), electron microscopy and other complementary instruments to build upon previous research investigating lateral mixing quantification, age dating, and correlative image fusion methodologies. This position is in the Trace Isotope and Element Signatures group of the Nuclear and Chemical Sciences Division.

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

You will 

• Use SIMS instruments (e.g., NanoSIMS and Small Geometry SIMS) for high-resolution isotopic imaging.
• Use electron microscopy instruments (secondary electron microscopy [SEM], energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy [EDS] and transmission electron microscopy [TEM]) for elemental and morphological characterization.
• Employ artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) tools to analyze and interpret microanalytical image datasets.
• Apply statistical methods for uncertainty quantification in microanalytical measurements.
• Publish research results in high-impact, peer-reviewed scientific or technical journals.
• Present findings at external conferences, seminars, and/or technical meetings within the nuclear forensics community.
• Collaborate with others in a multidisciplinary team environment to accomplish research goals.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. Citizenship.
• PhD in analytical chemistry, geochemistry, materials science, or related field.
• Experience with microanalysis methods, such as SIMS, SEM, EDS and TEM.
• Strong foundation in mass spectrometry principles.
• Ability to develop independent research projects as demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications.
• Programming experience in Python or similar environments for data analysis, visualization and/or automation.
• Innovative experimental skills with experience in experimental design, technique development, and execution.
• Capability to work independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary research environments.
• Proficient written and verbal communication skills for delivering presentations, preparing publications and writing technical reports.

Qualifications We Desire

• Experience with correlative microanalytical techniques and/or multi-modal imaging approaches.
• Knowledge of nuclear forensics concepts, material production processes and/or nuclear fuel cycle science.

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

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.

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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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