Solid State Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopist - Postdoctoral Researcher

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Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) has turned bold ideas into world-changing impact advancing science and technology to strengthen U.S. security and promote global stability. 

Our mission spans four critical national security areas nuclear deterrence, threat preparedness, energy security, and multi-domain defense empowering teams to take on the toughest challenges of today and tomorrow. With a culture built on innovation and operational excellence, LLNL is a place where your expertise can make a real impact.

We have an opening for a Solid State Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopist - Postdoctoral Researcher. We invite PhD graudates in the field of chemistry, physics, materials science, engineering, or related fields to apply. You will be an integral member of an interdisciplinary team responsible for conducting and supporting research of f-element science and materials characterization via magnetic resonance This position is in the Material Characterization Group of the Materials Science Division.

You will

• Design and conduct solid state and solution state magnetic resonance experiments including NMR, EPR, and MRI across a broad range of materials including rare earth elements and actinides.
• Perform double quantum NMR, EPR, and MRI measurements to elucidate internuclear and interelectron distances and develop structure property relationships.
• Conduct advanced research in the fields of solid state diffusion and characterization of novel actinide complexes.
• Serve as the primary technical contact on integrating solid state imaging pulse sequences on polymers.
• Convey capabilities and new opportunities to stakeholders across the laboratory.
• Develop and present written analyses and verbal briefings that capture and communicate research results as well as periodic progress reports.
• Publish research results in peer-reviewed scientific or technical journals and present results at external conferences, seminars and/or technical meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance which requires U.S. citizenship.
• PhD in chemistry, physics, materials science, engineering, or a related field.
• Experience in designing solid state magnetic resonance for elucidation of the structure and/or properties of complex materials, as demonstrated through publications, posters, and/or presentations.
• Experience multidimensional magnetic resonance (2D, 3D, 4D) as demonstrated through publications, posters, and/or presentations.
• Advanced knowledge with Bruker NMR, MRI, and EPR instrumentation.
• Ability to independently and quickly develop new methods and procedures (e.g. pulse sequences and data processing workflows).
• Ability and willingness to work in a laboratory setting handling acutely toxic materials.
• Proficient written and verbal communication skills necessary to deliver presentations and prepare written reports, explain technical information, and provide advice to management.
• Proficient interpersonal skills necessary to interact with a diverse set of scientists, engineers, and other technical and administrative staff within a collaborative research environment.

Qualifications we desire

• Advanced knowledge in diffusometry, coordination chemistry, and/or radiochemistry.
• Knowledge of other magnetic resonance techniques including solution state characterization, and relaxometry.
• Experience with hyperpolarization techniques (OD NMR, NV NMR, parahydrogen, DNP, SEOP, etc).

Pay Range

$123,048 Annually

This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting.  An employee’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Position Information

This is a Postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of extension to a maximum of three years, open to those who have been awarded a PhD at time of hire date.

Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?

• Included in 2026 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
• Flexible Benefits Package
• 401(k)
• Relocation Assistance
• Education Reimbursement Program
• Flexible schedules (*depending on project needs)
• Our values - visit https://www.llnl.gov/inclusion/our-values

Security Clearance

This position requires a Department of Energy (DOE) Q-level clearance.  If you are selected, we will initiate a Federal background investigation to determine if you meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information or matter. Also, all L or Q cleared employees are subject to random drug testing.  Q-level clearance requires U.S. citizenship. 

Pre-Employment Drug Test

External applicant(s) selected for this position must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.

Wireless and Medical Devices

Per the Department of Energy (DOE), Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory must meet certain restrictions with the use and/or possession of mobile devices in Limited Areas. Depending on your job duties, you may be required to work in a Limited Area where you are not permitted to have a personal and/or laboratory mobile device in your possession.  This includes, but not limited to cell phones, tablets, fitness devices, wireless headphones, and other Bluetooth/wireless enabled devices.  

If you use a medical device, which pairs with a mobile device, you must still follow the rules concerning the mobile device in individual sections within Limited Areas.  Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities require separate approval. Hearing aids without wireless capabilities or wireless that has been disabled are allowed in Limited Areas, Secure Space and Transit/Buffer Space within buildings.

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To learn more about recruitment scams: https://www.llnl.gov/sites/www/files/2023-05/LLNL-Job-Fraud-Statement-Updated-4.26.23.pdf

Equal Employment Opportunity

We are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to providing all with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status, age, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.

Reasonable Accommodation

Our goal is to create an accessible and inclusive experience for all candidates applying and interviewing at the Laboratory.  If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please use our online form to submit a request. 

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