Laser Material Interaction Science - 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 have an opening for a Postdoctoral Researcher to conduct research in laser-material interactions, with an emphasis on high-sensitivity optical microscopy capabilities, including multimodal characterization, generation and application of quantum-entangled photons, gas detection using Raman spectroscopy and/or absorption-based measurements, and materials characterization. You will actively participate in research on the development and use of high-sensitivity optical microscopy and spectroscopy capabilities, including multimodal characterization, development of entangled photon sources, and laser-based diagnostic platforms for materials and gaseous species. This position is in the Laser Material Interaction Science Group of the Materials for Emerging Applications & Extreme Conditions section in the Materials Science Division.

This position may offer a hybrid schedule, which includes the flexibility to work from home one or more days per week, after a probationary period. The specifics of the hybrid schedule, including the exact number of days required in the office and virtual work options may vary based on the needs of the team and the organization.

You will

• Conduct research in laser-matter interactions, high-sensitivity optical microscopy and spectroscopy, the use of quantum-entangled photons, all for materials and gas detection and characterization.
• Develop laser-based approaches for studying material systems and gaseous species, including high-sensitivity detection methods.
• Design and perform optical diagnostics and experimental platforms for generation, manipulation, and application of quantum-entangled photons.
• Engineer, construct, and modify optical apparatuses for laser-matter interaction research and optical sensing.
• Pursue independent but complementary research interests and interact with a broad spectrum of scientists both internally and externally to the Laboratory.
• Collaborate with scientists in a multidisciplinary team environment to accomplish research goals.
• Maintain and establish laboratory protocols.
• Document research; publish papers in peer-reviewed journals, and present results within the DOE community and at conferences.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship.
• PhD in Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience in laser technology and optics, including optical system design and building optical layouts.
• Experience in one or more of the following areas: laser-material interactions, optical microscopy, quantum imaging or spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, absorption-based sensing, and/or laser-based materials characterization methods such as time-resolved PL or pump-probe measurements.
• Ability to be an innovative experimentalist with a broad range of experience in experimental design, techniques, and execution.
• Ability to develop independent research projects that will result in publications in peer-reviewed scientific literature.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills, as reflected in effective presentations at seminars, meetings, and/or teaching lectures.
• Initiative and interpersonal skills, with the desire and ability to work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.

Qualifications We Desire

• Experience in using class 4 lasers, optics layout, and engineering.
• Experience with fiber-based sensing platforms.
• Experience with computer software for instrumentation design, control, and data analysis, such as LabVIEW, Zemax, Python, MATLAB, Mathematica, or C/C++.

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-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

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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Equal Employment Opportunity

We are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to providing all with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status, age, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.

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