Research Associate

Description:

Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), one of the world’s leading research institutions in science and national security, is seeking a Post-Master’s Student in Materials Science to join the Dynamic and Quasi-Static Loading Experimental Team within the Materials Physics and Applications (MPA) Division. This role provides a unique opportunity to contribute to pioneering materials research that connects processing, microstructure, and mechanical properties under dynamic and static conditions.

As a Post-Master’s Student, you will work alongside top scientists and engineers on experimental challenges in materials science—conducting hands-on research in materials processing, mechanical testing, and microstructural analysis. You will collaborate closely with your mentor and peers to advance understanding of material behavior and contribute to ongoing national science missions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct materials processing and mechanical testing experiments, emphasizing deformation and damage quantification.

• Prepare and characterize metallographic samples using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD).

• Troubleshoot and resolve experimental challenges with creativity and precision.

• Collaborate with other researchers to design and perform targeted experiments.

• Analyze data using programming tools such as Python or MATLAB, and contribute to comprehensive technical reports and presentations.

• Document and communicate research findings effectively in reports and group meetings.

Qualifications:

Minimum Requirements:

• Hands-on experience in materials processing, mechanical testing, or metallography.

• Strong knowledge of structure–property relationships in materials.

• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently.

• Effective written and oral communication skills.

• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Education:

• Master’s degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, or a closely related field.

• GPA of 3.2 or higher (on a 4.0 scale).

• Degree must have been awarded within the past three years.

• Candidate must not currently be enrolled in another Master’s or PhD program.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience with optical/electron microscopy (SEM/EBSD).

• Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for scientific data analysis.

• Familiarity with drafting or engineering drawings.

• Prior exposure to laboratory automation or instrumentation troubleshooting.

Work Location:

• This is a full-time, on-site position located in Los Alamos, NM.

• Duration: Up to two years as a Post-Master’s intern. Continued employment beyond this period requires enrollment in a graduate program.

Compensation & Benefits:

LANL offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• PPO or High Deductible Medical Insurance (nationwide network)

• Dental and Vision Insurance

• Free Basic Life and Disability Insurance

• Paid Parental Leave and Childbirth Leave

• 401(k) with 6% matching + 3.5% annual contribution

• Tuition assistance and professional learning opportunities

• Generous PTO, paid holidays, and flexible schedules

• Onsite gyms, wellness programs, and relocation assistance (for moves beyond 50 miles)

Additional Requirements:

• Employment is contingent upon successful drug testing and background checks.

• Due to federal regulations, citizens of China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia who are not U.S. Permanent Residents cannot access certain LANL facilities.

• No active security clearance is required for this role.

About Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL):

Located in scenic northern New Mexico, LANL is a multidisciplinary research institution dedicated to advancing national security through cutting-edge science and engineering. With world-class research facilities, LANL fosters innovation across fields such as materials science, energy, physics, and computational modeling. The laboratory emphasizes collaboration, integrity, and a mission-driven approach to solving some of the world’s most pressing scientific challenges.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

LANL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All hiring decisions are based on merit and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, or any other protected category.