Post Doctorate RA - Nuclear Signatures

At PNNL, our core capabilities are divided among major departments called Directorates, each focused on a specific area of scientific research or function. The National Security Directorate (NSD) drives science-based, mission-focused solutions to address complex, real-world threats. Within NSD, the Nuclear, Chemical, and Biological Technologies Division works across fundamental science, research and development, and operations to counter emerging national security threats, including explosives detection, biological threat detection, chemical and nuclear forensics, and special nuclear materials.

About the role

The Nuclear Signatures Group seeks a postdoctoral scientist to support nuclear non-proliferation research, focusing on nuclear explosion monitoring, safeguards, emergency response, arms control, and radiation detection. Space security is an emerging area for the group. Candidates should have hands-on experience in radiation detection and strong data analysis skills.

Responsibilities

• Operate detectors and sample systems
• Develop hardware and software for radiation measurement and detection systems
• Conduct data analysis and interpret measurements
• Prepare manuscripts and present research findings
• Conduct independent research and collaborate effectively in a team
• Design, model, prototype, construct, and operate radiation measurement/detection systems deployed internationally and domestically
• Engage in complex, data-intensive analysis
• Research areas include the structure and properties of matter, electromagnetic system design, and nuclear, particle, and electromagnetic phenomena

Requirements

• U.S. Citizenship
• Ability to obtain and maintain a federal security clearance, including a background investigation covering employment, education, financial, and criminal history, as well as interviews with personal references, neighbors, and co-workers
• Must demonstrate non-use of illegal drugs, including marijuana, for the 12 consecutive months preceding completion of the Questionnaire for National Security Positions (QNSP)
• Subject to pre-employment and random drug testing for illegal drugs, including marijuana, consistent with federal law

Qualifications

• PhD received within the past five years (60 months) or within the next 8 months from an accredited college or university

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD in Nuclear Physics, Particle Physics, or Nuclear Engineering
• Experience working with radiation detectors, including setup, operation, and data analysis
• Experience utilizing artificial intelligence in research
• Experience analyzing and interpreting complex data sets
• Strong understanding of nuclear physics, including radiation detection and measurement
• Proficiency in a programming language, preferably C++ or Python
• Willingness to learn new skills and support other environmental radioactivity monitoring projects

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Robust telehealth care options and mental health benefits
• Free wellness coaching and health savings account
• Flexible spending accounts
• Basic life insurance and disability insurance
• Employee assistance program and business travel insurance
• Tuition assistance and relocation support
• Backup childcare, legal benefits, and supplemental parental bonding leave
• Surrogacy and adoption assistance, and fertility support
• Company-funded pension plan and 401(k) savings plan with company match
• Up to 120 vacation hours per year and ten paid holidays

Pay

Minimum Salary: USD $69,000.00/Yr.

Maximum Salary: USD $119,100.00/Yr.