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Applied Acoustics Post Bachelors Student

Los Alamos National Security LLC, Los Alamos, NM, United States


What You Will Do
Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in science and engineering on behalf of national security. The Applied Acoustics Team (MPA-11) is looking for a post‑bachelor’s student with strong experimental and data analysis skills. We are seeking a highly motivated individual to join a multidisciplinary research team and contribute to the development of new acoustic characterization systems, across both industrial and non‑proliferation application spaces. This work involves complex experimental work, as well as significant data analysis and signal processing.

Our current work focuses on applied research for material characterization (solids, liquids, gases), acoustical imaging, nonlinear acoustics, acoustic separation of two‑phase systems, detection of corrosion and other defects in materials and acoustically engineered materials. The work involves the development of new techniques, customized instrumentation and validation of measurements in the field. The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to the development of new sensing technologies, patents and publications. There will be opportunities to work in a wide range of areas, to innovate, and present work to sponsors and conferences.

What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements

B.S. in Applied Physics, Engineering, Materials Science or a closely related field, earned within the last five years or soon to be completed

Strong technical background in one or more of the following areas: signal processing, advanced data analysis, finite element analysis (especially COMSOL), ultrasonic techniques, nondestructive testing, machine learning, time‑reversal acoustics

Fluency in one or more computer programming languages (e.g., Matlab, Python, Visual Basic, C++, LabVIEW, etc.)

Hands‑on experience designing and conducting experiments

Demonstrated experience in conducting original scientific research through peer‑reviewed publication record

Experience with complex experimental design/execution and associated data analysis

Demonstrated capability to act both creatively and independently to accomplish tasks given by senior personnel

Desired Qualifications

Knowledge of electronics and typical laboratory test instruments, such as function generators, oscilloscopes, piezoelectric transducers, DAQs, microphones, hydrophones, etc.

Experience with CAD software

Experience in ultrasonic flaw detection, acoustic imaging, or acoustic characterization of materials

Experience with acoustic resonance techniques (i.e. ARS, RUS, etc.)

Ability to adapt to new requirements for projects and be flexible to learn new areas of research as needed

Ability to obtain DOE Q clearance (usually requires US citizenship)

Work Location
The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.

Contact
Dr. Eric Davis, esdavis@lanl.gov

Note to Applicants
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China— including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau— as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents (“green card” holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.

Where You Will Work
Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security.

Benefits

PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network

Dental and vision insurance

Free basic life and disability insurance

Paid childbirth and parental leave

Award‑winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)

Learning opportunities and tuition assistance

Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)

Onsite gyms and wellness programs

Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)

Additional Details
Directive 206.2 – Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating the employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. This requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.

Eligibility requirements: To obtain a clearance, an individual must be at least 18 years of age; U.S. citizenship is required except in very limited circumstances. See DOE Order 472.2 for additional information.

Position does not require a security clearance. Selected candidates will be subject to drug testing and other pre‑employment background checks.

Equal Opportunity
Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505)-664-6947 opt. 3.

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