Chemistry - Postdoctoral Researcher

Join us and make YOUR mark on the World!

Are you interested in joining some of the brightest talent in the world to strengthen the United States’ security? Come join Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) where our employees apply their expertise to create solutions for BIG ideas that make our world a better place.

We are committed to a diverse and equitable workforce with an inclusive culture that values and celebrates the diversity of our people, talents, ideas, experiences, and perspectives. This is essential to innovation and creativity for continued success of the Laboratory’s mission.

We have an opening for a Postdoctoral Researcher to conduct research in one or more of the following areas: organic synthetic chemistry, polymerization science and plastic preparations, solution chemistry, and material characterization. You will actively participate in the research to design and study properties of organic materials used for radiation detection and other optical applications. This position is in the Quantum Simulations Group of the Materials Science Division.

In this role you will 

• Conduct research on the development of improved materials for radiation detection in support of missions in homeland security and nonproliferation.
• Contribute to the conception, design, and execution of research to address defined problems in the preparation of materials for bulk polymerization and 3D printing.
• Develop and conduct experiments to study solute-solvent interactions to adjust solubility of compounds in different solvents.
• Work in close contact with other scientists and technical personnel on characterization of physical properties of materials for neutron and antineutrino radiation detection.
• Participate in experiments on solution growth and characterization of single crystals radiation-detection applications.
• Pursue independent but complementary research interests and interact with a broad spectrum of scientists internally and externally to the Laboratory.
• Document research; publish papers in peer-reviewed journals, and present results within the DOE community and at conferences.
• Interact with senior project staff and management to influence programmatic decisions.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• PhD in chemistry, materials science, physics, or related scientific fields.
• Experience in polymerization science and plastic preparations.
• Experience in organic synthesis.
• Ability as an innovative experimentalist with a broad experience in material science, optical and structural analysis of condensed systems.
• Ability to develop independent research projects through to publication of peer-reviewed literature.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills as reflected in effective presentations at seminars, meetings and/or teaching lectures.
• Initiative and interpersonal skills with desire and ability to work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment plus the ability to respond quickly to diverse and shifting demands.

Qualifications We Desire

• Knowledge or experience of organo-metallic chemistry.
• Experience in ROOT, C++, or other relevant computer programming languages.

Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?

• Included in 2021 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor
• Work for a premier innovative national Laboratory
• Comprehensive Benefits Package
• Flexible schedules (*depending on project needs)
• Collaborative, creative, inclusive, and fun team environment

Learn more about our company, selection process, position types and security clearances by visiting our Career site . 

Security Clearance

LLNL is a Department of Energy (DOE) and National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) Laboratory.  Some positions will require a DOE L or Q clearance (please reference Security Clearance requirement above).  If you are selected and a clearance is required, we will initiate a Federal background investigation to determine if you meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information or matter. In addition, all L or Q cleared employees are subject to random drug testing.  An L or Q clearance requires U.S. citizenship.  For additional information please see DOE Order 472.2 (link is external) .

Pre-Employment Drug Test

External applicant(s) selected for this position will be required to 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.

Pre-Placement Medical Exam

A job related pre-placement medical examination may be required.

Equal Employment Opportunity

LLNL is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer that values and hires a diverse workforce. 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.

LLNS is committed to offering reasonable accommodations during the application and recruiting processes due to a disability.  If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please submit a request via our online form . 

California Privacy Notice

The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) grants privacy rights to all California residents. The law also entitles job applicants, employees, and non-employee workers to be notified of what personal information LLNL collects and for what purpose. The Employee Privacy Notice can be accessed here .