Post-Baccalaureate Student in Cold Atoms - Military Veterans

Job Title Post-Baccalaureate Student in Cold Atoms
Location Los Alamos, NM, US
Organization Name 3N080A/MPA-Q
Minimum Salary
Maximum Salary

What You Will Do

The Quantum Technologies Team at MPA-Q conducts advanced research utilizing ultracold atoms for quantum sensing and information processing. We are seeking a highly motivated post-baccalaureate student to assist in the development of an experimental setup for trapping and cooling atoms using optical potentials.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, the successful candidate will contribute to establishing a new AMO (atomic, molecular, and optical) laboratory. Responsibilities will include both experimental hands-on tasks and data analysis:

Experimental Tasks:

• Designing CAD models
  
  


• Performing workshop tasks (e.g., soldering, assembly of laser barriers)
  
  


• Working with ultra-high-vacuum technology
  
  


• Setting up and calibrating laser systems
  
  


• Aligning optics on optical benches
  
  

Analytical Tasks:

• Analyzing experimental data
  
  


• Performing data fitting
  
  


• Applying basic optimization techniques to enhance the efficiency of the experimental apparatus
  
  

This is an 11-month position, with the potential for a one-year extension, expected to start in October/November 2024.

What You Need

Minimum Job Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Physics or Engineering (or similar technical field), completed within the last 3 years or expected soon
  
  

Ideal Candidate Qualities:

• Enthusiastic with a strong team-oriented approach
  
  


• Detail-oriented with a practical mindset
  
  


• Capable of troubleshooting and solving practical problems
  
  


• Eager to learn and adapt to new techniques and technologies
  
  

Preferred Qualifications:

• Completed undergraduate coursework in quantum mechanics, linear algebra, differential equations, and modern physics laboratory techniques
  
  


• Experience with coding in Mathematica and/or Python
  
  


• Prior experience in scientific research
  
  

Work Environment:

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.

Note to Applicants:

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Where You Will Work

Located in northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. LANL enhances national security by ensuring the safety and reliability of the U.S. nuclear stockpile, developing technologies to reduce threats from weapons of mass destruction, and solving problems related to energy, environment, infrastructure, health, and global security concerns. 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
  
  


• lexible schedules and time off (paid sick, vacation, 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.

Internal Applicants: Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.

For general program information refer to the Student Programs web page.

Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer and supports a diverse and inclusive workforce. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation or preference, 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 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 1-505-665-4444 option 1.

Instructions on How to Activate/Create a LANL Jobs Account:

Follow the instructions below if you have ever had an employee Z number, been a contractor, or received Los Alamos Lab insurance coverage to activate your account:

• Select the Click Here button if you have been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage .

• Please enter only your first and last name and current email address (an email with your validation code will be sent to you) to activate the account currently in our system.

• Enter your validation code as described in the email you receive and complete the 3-page registration form. Your account is now active, and you can apply for jobs or save to your basket. Important : Enter the validation code within 15 days to activate your account or your account will be deactivated

Follow the instructions below if you if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to create an account:

• Select the Register button if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to Create an Account.

• From here, you will establish an account with username and password

How to Apply: How to Apply: Login to Your Account to Complete the Application Process

Click the Vacancy Name number (in blue) to view any job's details.

• Click Apply or Add to Basket to apply later. Tip : To apply for a job or save your basket, you must have a LANL jobs account.
If you experience any technical issues, please email applyhelp@lanl.gov for assistance
Employment Status
Appointment Type GRA
GRA