Nuclear and Particle Physics, Astrophysics and Cosmology Undergraduate Student

About the role

The NPAC theory group studies the most fundamental physics of the Universe from the tinius to the largest scales in Nature. We develop and employ the most modern theoretical and computational tools to probe everything from quarks and gluons in nuclei, to dramatic black hole and neutron star mergers emitting gravitational waves; from nuclear structure to rare isotopes; from nuclear fusion to nuclear fission for energy and security; from ghostly neutrinos to the mysterious dark matter in the Universe.

Specifically, our group has teams of scientists researching Astrophysics & Heliophysics, Basic Nuclear Theory, High-Energy Physics, Nuclear Reactions in light and heavy elements, and applications of these areas to practical problems in science and national security.

Responsibilities

You will work on a research project with a staff scientist mentor and co-mentor in one of these areas, expected to begin in summer/fall 2026.

Requirements

• Enrollment in a Bachelor's Degree program in any Theoretical Physics, Mathematics (or related) discipline
• Must be enrolled in at least 6 semester credit hours (or full-time equivalent).
• Must currently have and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent).

Qualifications

• Education/Experience: Current enrollment in a bachelor's degree in applied mathematics, engineering, physics, or a related field
• Currently enrolled (12 semester credit hours or full-time equivalent) in an accredited undergraduate degree-granting program (or international equivalent)
• Must have and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent).
• Entering first-year students must provide documentation indicating matriculation into an accredited undergraduate degree program.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience conducting scientific research.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate (verbal and written) well in a professional scientific context.

Essential Job Functions

• Work Environment: Work Location: The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM.