Geo-Energy Systems Postdoctoral Researcher
About the role
The Energy Systems and Infrastructure Security (ENSIS) team in the Earth and Environmental Sciences Division at Los Alamos National Laboratory is seeking an intellectually curious post-doctoral researcher in geo-energy resources and critical minerals. The successful candidate will work on an interdisciplinary team focused on integrated subsurface systems, combining geo-energy resources, critical mineral exploration, and geospatial analysis. The research will leverage advanced data analytics, applied machine learning, and techno-economic analysis to improve resource characterization, reduce uncertainty, and identify sustainable and economically viable development strategies.
Responsibilities
- Contribute to interdisciplinary research projects focusing on subsurface energy systems and reservoir engineering
- Develop and apply advanced data analytics and applied machine learning techniques to improve resource characterization and techno-economic analysis
- Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to integrate geoscience with data-driven approaches
- Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at national and international conferences
Requirements
- Demonstrated expertise in subsurface energy systems and reservoir engineering
- Strong written and oral communication skills, supported by peer-reviewed publications and presentations
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team
Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Petroleum Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Energy Systems Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related STEM field
- Completed all Ph.D. requirements within the last five years or by the commencement of the appointment
Skills
- Experience with reservoir simulation and/or molecular modeling
- Experience with applied machine learning or data-driven modeling
- Experience with techno-economic analysis (TEA) or decision-support modeling
- Experience with geospatial analysis, or remote sensing
- Interest in system-level geo-energy and critical mineral infrastructure modeling
Benefits
Los Alamos National Laboratory offers a comprehensive benefits package including:
- 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)
Pay
$99,500-$109,911 based on experience.
Schedule
Work Location: The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM.