High Energy Density Science (HEDS) Center Postdoctoral Fellow

We have an opening for a High Energy Density Science (HEDS) Center Postdoctoral Fellow. The purpose of this fellowship is to attract top HEDS talent to Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) and to support fellows careers as they grow to be future leaders of the field. The HEDS Center Fellow will do creative and independent research in any aspect of HEDS science including inertial confinement fusion lasers and optics high pressure science opacity charged particle transport astrophysics nuclear physics and matter in extreme conditions. Fellows participate in experimental theoretical or computational work at LLNL and will have access to LLNLs extensive computing facilities talent pool specialized laboratory facilities and field equipment.

The HEDS Center at LLNL is a focal point for connecting experts around the world with the extensive experimental and computational capabilities at LLNL. The Centers mission is to strengthen fundamental research collaborations in the field of HED science between LLNL and the academic community recruit bright scientists to LLNLs HEDS programs and educate people about HEDS. Details about LLNLs High Energy Density Science Center may be found at:

Applicants will need to submit their CV research proposal three references for letters of recommendation application summary and transcripts. Once you submit your application you can go back and make updates. The deadline for application is October 5 2026. Reference letters and LLNL staff endorsements must be received by October 12 2026.

Detailed information and proposal and summary templates can be found at: on your assignment this position may offer a hybrid schedule blending in-person and virtual presence. You may have the flexibility to work from home one or more days per week.

You will

• Conduct research and/or development in one or more of the following areas:  plasma physics astrophysics hydrodynamics nuclear physics high pressure science warm dense matter and hot dense matter physics strongly coupled Coulomb systems lasers laser-driven dynamic compression matter at extreme conditions interiors of planets and exoplanets giant impacts or related field.
• Organize analyze and present data from research.
• Pursue independent (but complementary) research interests and interact with exceptional scientists both internal and external to the Laboratory.
• Collaborate with others in a multidisciplinary team environment to accomplish research goals.
• Publish research results in peer-reviewed scientific or technical journals and present results at external conferences seminars and/or technical meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications :

• Must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). See Additional Information section below for details.
• Endorsement from a prospective mentor who must be a permanent research staff member at LLNL.
• PhD in a field relevant to high energy density science including nuclear physics plasma physics hydrodynamics astrophysics lasers warm dense matter hot dense matter strongly coupled coulomb systems high-pressure science laser-driven dynamic compression matter at extreme conditions interiors of planets and exoplanets giant impacts.
• Creativity exceptional ability and proven accomplishments in applicants area of specialization as demonstrated through publication of peer-reviewed literature awards or other accomplishments.
• Demonstrated ability to propose and execute research aligned with current or emerging LLNL high energy density science mission needs and strategic growth areas.
• Demonstrated potential for sustained technical contribution in research areas of current or emerging strategic importance to LLNL in high energy density science.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills to collaborate effectively in a team environment and present and explain technical information as demonstrated through publication of peer-reviewed literature presentations and the interview.

Pay Range

$151092 Annually

This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting.  An employees position within the salary range will be based on several factors including but not limited to specific competencies relevant education qualifications certifications experience skills seniority geographic location performance and business or organizational needs.

Additional Information :

#LI-Hybrid

Position Information

This is a Postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of extension to a maximum of three years open to those who have been awarded a PhD at time of hire date.

Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

• Included in 2026 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
• Flexible Benefits Package
• 401(k)
• Relocation Assistance
• Education Reimbursement Program
• Flexible schedules (*depending on project needs)
• Our values - visit  Clearance

  None required.  However if your assignment is longer than 179 days cumulatively within a calendar year you must go through the Personal Identity Verification process.  This process includes completing an online background investigation form and receiving approval of the background check.  

  National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)

  The 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Section 3112 generally prohibits citizens of China Russia Iran and North Korea without dual US citizenship or legal permanent residence from accessing specific non-public areas of national security or nuclear weapons facilities.  The restrictions of NDAA Section 3112 apply to this position.  To be qualified for this position Candidates must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112.

  Pre-Employment Drug Test

  External applicant(s) selected for this position must pass a post-offer pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.

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  If you use a medical device which pairs with a mobile device you must still follow the rules concerning the mobile device in individual sections within Limited Areas.  Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities require separate approval. Hearing aids without wireless capabilities or wireless that has been disabled are allowed in Limited Areas Secure Space and Transit/Buffer Space within buildings.

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  Remote Work :

  No

  
  

  Employment Type :

  Full-time