Nondestructive Evaluation Ultrasound - Postdoctoral Researcher

LLNL • Livermore, CA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher in Ultrasonics to join its Nondestructive Evaluation Group in the Materials Engineering Division. The researcher will characterize complex, heterogeneous materials and components using advanced experimental and analytical methods, contributing to mission-driven research in process characterization and part inspection. The work spans relevant areas such as ultrasonics, acoustics, laser and optical methods, wave propagation, vibrations, solid mechanics, and mechanics of materials. The position is full-time and requires on-site presence.

Under the guidance of scientific staff, the researcher will contribute to research projects while pursuing independent, complementary research aligned with programmatic needs and emerging technical opportunities. The appointment provides an opportunity to develop a research portfolio, publish impactful work, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams in an applied research environment. This is a temporary, mentored postdoctoral training appointment, with the possibility of extension up to a maximum of three years. Applicants must have received their Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate within five years of the anticipated start date.

The role requires the ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship. Selected applicants must also pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test. Depending on duties, work in Limited Areas may restrict possession of personal and laboratory mobile or other wireless devices.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in physics, mechanical engineering, materials engineering, or a related field.
• Experience in one or more of ultrasonics, acoustics, and wave propagation.
• Demonstrated ability to design and execute experiments in one or more of signal processing, machine learning, modeling, or data analysis.
• Ability to develop independent research projects, including publications in peer-reviewed literature.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to collaborate effectively and present and explain technical information.
• Strong initiative and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q-level security clearance; U.S. citizenship is required for the clearance.
• Must have received a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate within five years of the anticipated start date.
• Must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with MATLAB and/or Python.
• Experience with wave-propagation modeling and simulation, and multiphysics simulation tools such as COMSOL or ANSYS.
• Experience with typical ultrasonic test equipment, including transducers, immersion scanning systems, and phased arrays.
• Experience developing algorithms and applying data-processing techniques for wave propagation.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research and development in one or more of ultrasonics, acoustics, laser ultrasonics, embedded sensors, mechanics of materials, and materials science.
• Design, implement, and evaluate experimental methods for material characterization, in situ process feedback, and nondestructive evaluation of parts and assemblies.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data using signal processing, statistical analysis, and machine learning approaches.
• Model characterization and inspection physics using finite element, ray-tracing, or Monte Carlo methods, as appropriate.
• Contribute to the conception, planning, and execution of research projects addressing defined scientific and engineering problems.
• Pursue independent yet complementary research aligned with programmatic needs and emerging technical opportunities.
• Collaborate with engineers and scientists across disciplines to achieve project objectives.
• Publish results in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at conferences, seminars, and technical meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Flexible Benefits Package
• 401(k)
• Relocation Assistance
• Education Reimbursement Program
• Flexible schedules (depending on project needs)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree