The successful candidate will focus on the syntheses and applications of high explosive molecules. Examples include modified derivatives of existing explosives containing nitro, nitrate ester, and nitramine functional groups and the development of novel energetic materials. Exploratory synthetic chemistry of new initiating explosives will also be encouraged. Basic spectroscopic characterization will be performed with the new materials, in addition to sensitivity and performance characteristics. Promising initiating materials will undergo testing with detonator prototypes. This work will lead to the potential for both publications in chemical journals as well as applications in projects with national security missions.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements: · Extensive experience and expertise in synthetic organic and/or inorganic chemistry with a focus on safe handling techniques (Schlenk, inert atmosphere glovebox usage and maintenance, ligand syntheses). · Experience in preparation and characterization of organic compounds. · Demonstrated communication and language skills, as evidenced by publications and the cover letter as well as independent problem solving. · Demonstrated ability to work in a collaborative environment in shared laboratory space. This includes active interfacing with both experimental and computational colleagues (internal and external) to push forward results into publication format as well as modifying materials for practical detonator applications. Desired Skills: · NMR spectroscopy, IR/Raman spectroscopy, UV/vis/NIR spectroscopy, Single-crystal X-ray diffraction, various chemical software proficiency. · Willingness to handle sensitive high explosive materials in a rigorous safety environment. However, no previous high explosive handling experience is required –training will be provided. · Must be highly self-motivated to drive forward the research independently with their own creative ideas in addition to direction from the mentor. Education: A PhD in Chemistry is required. The candidate must have completed all Ph.D. requirements by commencement of the appointment and be within 5 years of completion of the Ph.D. Notes to Applicant: Interested applicants are required to apply online and upload a cover letter and resume. The cover letter must address the candidate experience and how it applies to the opening. Additionally, applicants must email a copy of their resume to Virginia Manner at vwmanner@lanl.gov.
Located in northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. LANL enhances national security by ensuring the safety and reliability of the U.S. nuclear stockpile, developing technologies to reduce threats from weapons of mass destruction, and solving problems related to energy, environment, infrastructure, health, and global security concerns.
Explosive Science and Shock Physics (M) Division is responsible for current and evolving explosive science and shock physics efforts. We support National Security through the invention and application of energetic materials and application of our static and dynamic compression science capability for understanding material response at extreme conditions to address conventional, nuclear, and homeland defense needs. The Division has a diverse portfolio of research, development, and application projects involving the dynamic properties of inert and reactive weapons materials including the physics of shock waves in inert and energetic materials, the molecular synthesis of novel energetic materials, the formulation of EM into engineered materials, the shock initiation and detonation physics of explosives, the response of explosives to various stimuli including electrical, chemical, mechanical, thermal, impact, shock and laser interactions, the development and small-scale application of unique energetic materials, and the diverse application of high-explosive driven pulsed-power (HEPP) systems.
M-7, the High Explosive Science & Technology Group, serves the Laboratory and nation by providing the knowledge base in high explosives (HE) testing for the Nuclear Weapons Program and other national security areas. The group specializes in a broad array of energetic materials science including development (synthesis and formulation) and testing of novel explosives, pilot plant production of explosive materials, advanced manufacturing of explosives, analytical chemistry of explosives and explosives ingredients, homemade explosives research and training, and special security projects.
Additional Details:
Q Clearance: Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements* for access to classified matter.
*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.
New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing.
Candidates may be considered for a Director's Postdoc Fellowship and outstanding candidates may be considered for the prestigious Richard P. Feynman, Darleane Christian Hoffman, J. Robert Oppenheimer, or Frederick Reines Distinguished Postdoc Fellowships.
For general information go to Postdoc Program.
Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer and supports a diverse and inclusive workforce. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regards to race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation or preference, 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 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 1-505-665-4444 option 1.