Undergraduate student

Undergraduate research assistant positions are available in the Fluid Dynamics and Solid Mechanics Group (T-3) of the Theoretical Division. Successful candidates will conduct research in one or more of the group's active areas.

About the Role

The Fluid Dynamics and Solid Mechanics Group (T-3) conducts research in theoretical and computational mechanics, including modeling and simulation of fluids and deforming solids across multiple length and time scales. The group emphasizes coupling advanced models and numerical methods for materials dynamics at all velocities, with integrated physical processes such as large solid deformation, multiphase flows, chemical reactions, phase change, heat and mass transfer, and combustion. This multidisciplinary group draws expertise from engineering, physics, and applied mathematics.

Research supports customers including the National Nuclear Security Administration's Nuclear Weapons Program, other Department of Energy offices, the Department of Defense, and private industry. Collaborations with academia are strongly encouraged.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in theoretical modeling and numerical computation of fluid dynamics, solid deformations, or related fields of physics.
• Work within a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.
• Learn and apply scientific software packages and analytical calculations.

Requirements

• Current enrollment in a Bachelor's Degree program in Physics, Applied Mathematics, Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Minimum 3.2 out of 4.0 cumulative GPA in undergraduate coursework.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Desire to learn new concepts and work on diverse projects.

Qualifications

• Research experience in theoretical modeling and numerical computation of fluid dynamics, solid deformations, or related physics fields.
• Ability to independently learn scientific software packages and perform analytical calculations.

Pay

Salaries range from $22.57/hr to $30.53/hr, depending on completed education. Full salary details are available at LANL Student Salary Structure.

Schedule

The initial appointment is for 3 months, with possible extensions of up to 3-4 years based on progress and funding. Applicant reviews begin on January 3rd, 2026.

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) with 6% matching plus 3.5% annual contribution.
• Learning opportunities and tuition assistance.
• Flexible schedules and paid time off (PTO and holidays).
• Onsite gyms and wellness programs.
• Extensive relocation packages (for candidates outside a 50-mile radius).

Work Location

The position is onsite at Los Alamos National Laboratory in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.

Due to federal restrictions, citizens of the People's Republic of China (including Hong Kong and Macau), the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities supporting national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production, including Los Alamos National Laboratory.

No security clearance is required, but selected candidates will undergo drug testing and other pre-employment background checks. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination, even if use was pre-offer, as marijuana remains illegal under federal law.