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Physics-Aware AI/ML Scientist (Scientist 2/3)

Los Alamos National Laboratory

Los Alamos, NM

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JOB DETAILS
SALARY
$106,400–$176,000 Per Year
SKILLS
Algorithms, Analysis Skills, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Astrophysics, C++ Programming Language, Casting, Communication Skills, Compiled Programming Languages, Computational Physics, Computer Programming, Computer Systems, Data Sets, Dental Insurance, Develop Methodologies, Fluid Mechanics and Dynamics, Fortran Programming Language, Interpersonal Skills, JAX (Java API for XML), Laboratory, Leadership, Manufacturing Systems, Mathematics, Mentoring, Online Courses, Operations Security (OPSEC), Physics, Plasma, Presentation/Verbal Skills, Problem Solving Skills, Project Development, Proposal Writing, Prototyping, Publications, Python Programming/Scripting Language, Scientific Research, Simulation, Team Player, Technical Presentation, Tuition Fees, Vision Plan, Writing Skills
LOCATION
Los Alamos, NM
POSTED
30+ days ago
What You Will Do

This position will be filled at either the Scientist 2 or Scientist 3 level, depending on the skills of the selected candidate. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level.

The Physics-Aware AI/ML Team within the Computational Physics and Methods group is looking for innovative researchers to design and implement physically-consistent, trustworthy AI/ML algorithms that provide solutions to demanding scientific and national-security problems.

CAI-2 is a dynamic, collaborative group engaged in the entire computational-physics workflow, from developing novel methods to delivering production-grade single- and multi-physics codes. We engage in fundamental and applied research across diverse fields, including radiation transport, fluid dynamics (specifically shock hydrodynamics, compressible and variable density turbulence, turbulent reacting flows, multi-phase-flows and hypersonic flows), metal casting and advanced manufacturing, Earth systems, astrophysics and plasma physics.

Scientist 2 ($106,400-$176,000)

Successful candidates will actively participate in collaborative projects and research activities combining physics subject matter expertise with knowledge of AI/ML methodologies to advance simulation capabilities for complex physical systems. Duties of this job include contributing to innovation in physics-aware AI/ML methods, advancing basic and applied science through rigorous physically-consistent modeling, and producing peer-reviewed publications, internal reports and presentations.

Scientist 3 ($128,000-$215,900)

In addition to what was outlined at the lower level, at this level a successful candidate will take a larger role in project development and leadership, proposal writing and mentoring.

What You Need

Minimum Job Requirements:


Physics Expertise: Experience with physics-informed AI/ML methods, as evidenced through a strong scientific record of peer-reviewed publications and presentations, paired with subject matter expertise in one or more of the group's physics thrusts.

AI/ML Applications: Experience with at least one of the following: AI/ML techniques for solving inverse problems; experimental analysis and/or co-design using state-of-the-art AI/ML techniques, including digital twin development; design of reduced-order and/or surrogate models; design of multi-scale AI/ML methods that connect physics across disparate length and time scales.

Novel Methodology Development: Demonstrated expertise in developing new AI/ML research directions and original methodologies.

Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to thrive in a collaborative environment, demonstrating strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work across disciplines to answer complex physics and engineering questions.

Communication: Effective written and oral communication skills with diverse collaborators and audiences.

Computing: Excellent scientific programming skills with demonstrated, hands-on experience (beyond online courses/certifications) using modern ML libraries and tools-e.g., PyTorch and/or JAX-as well as high-level languages such as Python (including NumPy/SciPy) and/or compiled languages such as C++/Fortran. Experience working with large numerical simulations and/or high-dimensional datasets. Comfort with high-performance computing environments.

Additional Job Requirements for Scientist 3:

In addition to the requirements outlined above, qualification at the higher level requires:

Leadership: Experience planning, directing, and executing technical projects.

Mentorship: Experience mentoring staff, postdocs and/or students.

Communication: A substantial record of achievement through publications, presentations, and technical products.

Education/Experience at lower level: Position requires a Bachelor's degree in a STEM field from an accredited college and university and 4 years of related experience, typically with post-doctoral research experience at a university or national lab or equivalent experience directly related to the occupation.

Education/Experience at higher level: Position requires a Master's degree in a STEM field from an accredited college or university and 6 years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.

Desired Qualifications:
  • PhD and postdoctoral work in a relevant field such as Physics, Engineering, Applied Mathematics or Computational Science are strongly desired.
  • Experience with UQ and V&V of AI/ML models in physics contexts.
  • Experience transitioning research prototypes to production-ready tools, including working with stakeholders to facilitate tool adoption.
  • Experience bridging between AI/ML research and domain science communities.
  • Ability to obtain a Q clearance.

Work Location: The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.

Position commitment: Regular appointment employees are required to serve a period of continuous service in their current position in order to be eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the time required, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. The position commitment for this position is 1 year.

Note to Applicants: For full consideration, please submit a CV, detailed cover letter describing how you satisfy the job requirements and contact information for three professional references familiar with your work.

Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of 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 that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.

Where You Will Work

Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:

§ 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)
Additional Details

Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.
No Clearance: Position does not require a security clearance. Selected candidates will be subject to drug testing and other pre-employment background checks.

New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.

Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505)-664-6947.

About the Company

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Los Alamos National Laboratory