We have multiple openings for Inertial Confinement Fusion Physicists to become part of the team working on the grand challenge of achieving thermonuclear ignition on the National Ignition Facility (NIF). This research requires working closely with individuals from other disciplines, such as laser experimentalists, laser scientists, target fabrication specialists and NIF Project scientists and engineers, as well as other target designers and theorists. These positions are in the Design Physics Division within the Strategic Deterrence (SD) Directorate.
These positions may offer a hybrid schedule, blending in-person and virtual presence. You may have the flexibility to work from home one or more days per week.
These positions will be filled at either level based on knowledge and related experience as assessed by the hiring team. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if hired at the higher level.
You will
- Plan, analyze and interpret NIF laser experiments in support of the effort to achieve ignition on NIF principally with large computer codes, but also with analytic modeling.
- Perform computational and theoretical analyses that extrapolate our current understanding of ignition related physics to NIF and beyond.
- Successfully work as part of an interdisciplinary team on ICF project activities.
- Present research results in scientific meetings, peer reviews, and publications. Responsibilities may also include interacting with external stakeholders, both at NNSA and across the broader interagency, via offsite assignments.
- Promote and support plans to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the program.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Additional responsibilities at the SES.3 Level
- Independently develop and/or provide in depth analysis of NIF laser experiments in support of the effort to achieve ignition on NIF principally with large computer codes, but also with analytic modeling where complex problems may not be well defined.
- Work as technical expert on multidisciplinary team.
- Ability to maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security which requires U.S. citizenship.
- PhD in physics or related field, or the equivalent combination of education and related experience.
- Comprehensive knowledge of plasma physics, hydrodynamics, or astrophysics.
- Experience in computational modeling of complex systems.
- Experience developing creative solutions to complex problems.
- Demonstrated ability to deliver a high quality, polished product in a timely manner.
- Proficient written and verbal communication skills as demonstrated by a record of publications, invited papers, or teaching experience.
- Demonstrated ability to interact effectively in an interdisciplinary team of scientists as well as independently.
Additional qualifications at the SES.3 Level
- Advanced knowledge of physics, plasma physics, hydrodynamics, or astrophysics or a related field.
- Experience leading and mentoring as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Demonstrated record of completing and/or leading top quality research in relevant areas of physics and engineering.
Qualifications We Desire
- Experience with the use of large two and three-dimensional computer codes.
- Demonstrated ability/commitment to valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion principles in the workplace.
Please include a personalized cover letter with your application, highlighting your qualifications and why you're interested in this position.