Nondestructive Evaluation Ultrasound - Postdoctoral Researcher

LLNL • Livermore, CA

2d • $122,028 - $143,328 • 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 of the Engineering Directorate. The researcher will characterize complex, heterogeneous materials and components using advanced experimental and analytical methods. Relevant areas include ultrasonics, acoustics, laser and optical methods, wave propagation, vibrations, solid mechanics, and mechanics of materials. Working under scientific staff guidance, the researcher will contribute to process-characterization and part-inspection research supporting national security missions. The position offers opportunities to develop a research portfolio, publish impactful work, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams in an applied environment.

This position requires full-time on-site presence. It is a temporary, mentored postdoctoral training appointment, with the possibility of extension 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 position requires eligibility to obtain and maintain a DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship and a federal background investigation.

Requirements

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Energy Q-level security clearance; U.S. citizenship is required.
• 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 and ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment and present and explain technical information.
• Strong initiative and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.
• Must have received a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate within five years of the anticipated start date.

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 ultrasonics, acoustics, laser ultrasonics, embedded sensors, mechanics of materials, and/or 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 but 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