Postdoctoral Research Associate - Process Modeling for the Fusion Fuel Cycle

Los Alamos National Laboratory’s Chemical Diagnostics and Engineering Group (C-CDE) is seeking a highly motivated and technically strong Postdoctoral Research Associate to join a multidisciplinary team working on the Fusion Fuel Cycle. This role focuses on applying chemical engineering principles and computational tools to address challenges in tritium handling, isotope separation, and gas processing for fusion energy.

About the Role

The successful candidate will work closely with engineers, physicists, and chemists to model and optimize systems critical to future fusion reactors. C-CDE is an applied technology organization addressing national security-related issues through integrated development in Analytical Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Electrochemistry, Materials Science, and Chemical Engineering.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement detailed process models of fusion fuel cycle systems (e.g., isotope separation units, gas purification systems, tritium processing plants).
• Use chemical process simulation tools such as Aspen Plus, MATLAB, or Python to model transport phenomena, chemical reactions, and phase behavior.
• Conduct parametric and sensitivity analyses to assess system performance under various operating conditions.
• Interface with experimental teams to validate simulation results and refine models.
• Contribute to the design of predictive, scalable tools to guide R&D and system integration.
• Present research findings through publications, technical reports, and conference presentations.
• Engage in multidisciplinary collaboration across fusion science, chemical engineering, and materials science.

Requirements

• Deep understanding of mass transfer, separation processes, reactor modeling, and phase equilibria.
• Demonstrated experience with chemical process modeling software (e.g., Aspen Plus, COMSOL) and/or scientific programming (MATLAB, Python, Fortran).
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills with a track record of independent technical contributions.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to publish and present technical work.

Qualifications

Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field (e.g., Nuclear, Materials, or Mechanical Engineering with strong chemical engineering applications).

Desired Skills

• Prior experience modeling systems relevant to the fusion fuel cycle (e.g., tritium handling, gas separation, hydrogen isotopes).
• Familiarity with process design, plant operations, or engineering economics.
• Experience with data analysis and visualization for large, simulation-generated datasets.
• Knowledge of plasma-material interactions, statistical mechanics, or molecular simulations (a plus but not required).

Benefits

• PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with a 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

This position requires a Q clearance, which typically requires U.S. citizenship. Selected applicants will undergo a background investigation. The work location is onsite in Los Alamos, NM. Due to federal restrictions, citizens of the People’s Republic of China, Iran, North Korea, or the Russian Federation who are not Lawful Permanent Residents are prohibited from accessing facilities supporting national security laboratories.