National Security Engineering Division - Space Hardware Postdoctoral Researcher

LLNL•Livermore, CA

9d•Onsite

About The Position

We have an opening for a Space Hardware Postdoctoral Researcher to conduct research in the areas of structural mechanics, and engineering design of advanced materials for space applications. You will contribute to cutting-edge research focused on developing the next generation of large aperture optical space payloads, with a focus on novel structures, mechanisms and advanced materials. This position is in Advanced Space Development Group (ASDG) in the National Security Engineering Division (NSED), within the Engineering Directorate. This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work. You will Conduct fundamental research in structural dynamics of novel materials for space payload applications. Develop custom structural and dynamic finite element simulations. Research and advise the Space Hardware group on research direction for novel materials. Contribute to the conception, design and execution of experiments related to novel material development and characterization. Support lab experiments to test and characterize mechanical response of novel materials for space applications. Communicate and collaborate with engineers, scientists and physicists supporting space payload development. Develop new computational tools for high performance computing studies. Support proposal development for the Space Hardware group. Design research plans, generate and analyze results, publish findings in peer- reviewed journals. Present research outcomes at conferences, seminars, and technical meetings. Contribute to technical reports for sponsors and stakeholders. Travel as needed to coordinate with research collaborators and visit field sites. Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance which requires U.S. citizenship.
PhD in a related field physical science, engineering or applied mathematics discipline.
Experience designing complex mechanical devices, accounting for material choices, thermal management, and preferably, optical performance.
Experience developing innovative solutions to scientific and technical problems.
Ability to perform and undertake independent and original research and communicate findings through publication of journal articles and presentations at seminars and scientific meetings.
Proficient verbal and written communication skills and demonstrated leadership skills to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
Ability to travel.

Nice To Haves

Experience in mathematical modeling of material interactions in harsh environments.
Demonstrated understanding of the requirements of space-bound mechanical components and mechanisms.
Demonstrated understanding of the effects of radiation on space electronics and how to use novel material approaches to provide appropriate shielding.

Responsibilities

Conduct fundamental research in structural dynamics of novel materials for space payload applications.
Develop custom structural and dynamic finite element simulations.
Research and advise the Space Hardware group on research direction for novel materials.
Contribute to the conception, design and execution of experiments related to novel material development and characterization.
Support lab experiments to test and characterize mechanical response of novel materials for space applications.
Communicate and collaborate with engineers, scientists and physicists supporting space payload development.
Develop new computational tools for high performance computing studies.
Support proposal development for the Space Hardware group.
Design research plans, generate and analyze results, publish findings in peer- reviewed journals.
Present research outcomes at conferences, seminars, and technical meetings.
Contribute to technical reports for sponsors and stakeholders.
Travel as needed to coordinate with research collaborators and visit field sites.
Perform other duties as assigned.