AI/ML Critical Infrastructure Postdoc
Los Alamos National Laboratory· Research & Development (National Security)· Oct 7, 2026 · 21d ago
Los Alamos, New Mexico
In office
Full-time
Senior
$137K–$195K est.
Job description
What You Will Do
Join the best and brightest minds in the world at one of the most innovative and creative multidisciplinary research institutions engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security; the work we do at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) matters to our country and the world.
We are looking for exceptional postdoctoral researcher to advance work at the intersection of machine learning, scientific computing, uncertainty quantification, and physics-based modeling of energy systems. As a valued member of our multidisciplinary team of mathematicians, physicists, engineers, computer scientists, and AI/ML researchers, you will develop cutting-edge AI/ML capabilities for integrating heterogenous models, physics-based simulations, and analysis across a variety of engineered systems (electric power, natural gas, and communication networks), collaborate across disciplines with domain scientists on complex, real-world infrastructure challenges, and innovate methodologies in data-model fusion, modeling dynamic equations using AI/ML methods, surrogate modeling, probabilistic prediction, uncertainty quantification and data assimilation to advance mission critical research.
This position is part of the Computational Intelligence & Modeling Group (A-1), who facilitate the application of trusted, cutting-edge modeling, simulation, and data-driven intelligence capabilities backed by rigorous engineering and validation to enable rapid, evidence-based decision-making for critical national and global security challenges. A-1 is the essential connection between research frontiers and mission success, where innovative research and development (R&D) transforms information on global threats into knowledge to keep decision makers ahead of the curve. Agility and adaptability are highly prized and emphasized; because the global threat landscape constantly evolves, so too does A-1's R&D portfolio. To achieve this, A-1 has a diverse team of subject matter experts, from mathematicians and economists to engineers and physicists, to computer and data scientists.
We are expecting to hire one Postdoctoral Research Associate for a 2-year appointment. Core activities will include AI/ML model development, running physics-based simulations, empirical validation, and collaboration with domain scientists on mission-relevant problems involving predictability, risk, attribution, and multi-scale system processes.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
• Demonstrated experience in machine learning, data-driven modeling, scientific computing, or statistical methods for complex systems, evidenced by a strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
• Deep understanding of one or more areas: surrogate modeling, emulation, data assimilation, uncertainty quantification, probabilistic prediction, or multi-modal data integration.
• Proficient programming skills with hands-on experience using modern ML frameworks (e.g., PyTorch and/or JAX) and Python, scientific stack (NumPy/SciPy).
• Demonstrated creativity and interest in developing new research directions rather than only implementing existing methods.
• Ability to obtain a DOE Q and SCI security clearances, which generally requires U.S. citizenship
Education/Experience :
A Ph.D. in electrical engineering, computer science, physics or a related field within the past 5 years is required.
Desired Qualifications:
• Experience with critical infrastructure modeling tools (PowerWorld, Pandapower, MATPOWER, PowerModels, GasModels, ns-3)
• Collaborative software development experience (git/version control)
• Experience with modeling dynamic equations using AI/ML methods
Work Location: The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.
Note to Applicants:
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.
For further questions, please contact Anup Pandey at anup@lanl.gov . To apply, please use the "apply now" button below. Include a letter describing your research interests, a CV, a code sample, and 3 references.
Where You Will Work
Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:
§ PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
§ Dental and vision insurance
§ Free basic life and disability insurance
§ Paid childbirth and parental leave
§ Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
§ Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
§ Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
§ Onsite gyms and wellness programs
§ Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)
Additional Details
Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2 . Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.
Clearance: Q (Position will be cleared to this level). Selected applicants will be subject to a background investigation conducted by or on behalf of the Federal Government, and must meet eligibility requirements* for access to classified matter. This position requires a Q clearance, and obtaining such clearance requires US Citizenship except in extremely rare circumstances. Dependent upon the position, additional authorization to access classified information may be required, which may or may not be available to dual citizens. Receipt of a Q clearance and additional access authorization ultimately is a decision of the Federal Government and not of Triad.
*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. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.
Internal Applicants: Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.
Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, 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, state, and local 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 (505)-664-6947.
Instructions on How to Activate/Create a LANL Jobs Account:
Follow the instructions below if you have ever had an employee Z number, been a contractor, or received Los Alamos Lab insurance coverage to activate your account:
• Select the Click Here button if you have been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage.
• Please enter only your first and last name and current email address (an email with your validation code will be sent to you) to activate the account currently in our system.
• Enter your validation code as described in the email you receive and complete the 3-page registration form. Your account is now active, and you can apply for jobs or save to your basket. Important: Enter the validation code within 15 days to activate your account or your account will be deactivated.
Follow the instructions below if you if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to create an account:
• Select the Register button if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to Create an Account.
• From here, you will establish an account with username and password.
How to Apply: Login to Your Account to Complete the Application Process
• Click the Vacancy Name number (in blue) to view any job's details.
• Click Apply or Add to Basket to apply later. Tip: To apply for a job or save your basket, you must have a LANL jobs account.
If you experience any technical issues, please email applyhelp@lanl.gov for assistance.
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