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High Pressure Physics Postdoc Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Postdoctoral Fellow

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$54K - $73K/yr

... Physics/SEAS Position Description Our lab is developing a series of cutting-edge methods to ... As one example, we are using time-resolved cryo-vitrification (both cryo-plunging and high-pressure ...

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High Pressure Physics Postdoc information

What is a High Pressure Physics Postdoc?

A High Pressure Physics Postdoc is a researcher who has completed their Ph.D. and is engaged in advanced research focused on the study of materials and phenomena under extreme pressure conditions. These postdoctoral scientists work to understand how matter behaves at high pressures, which can lead to discoveries about the fundamental properties of materials, planetary interiors, and novel phases of matter. Their work often involves using specialized equipment such as diamond anvil cells and synchrotron X-ray sources. High Pressure Physics Postdocs typically work in university labs, government research institutions, or national laboratories, collaborating with physicists, chemists, and materials scientists.

What are some common challenges faced by a High Pressure Physics Postdoc when conducting experiments?

High Pressure Physics Postdocs often encounter challenges related to the complexity and sensitivity of high-pressure experimental setups. Maintaining stable pressure and temperature conditions, ensuring accurate calibration of equipment, and preventing sample contamination are frequent hurdles. Additionally, troubleshooting unexpected results or equipment malfunctions requires strong problem-solving skills and close collaboration with engineers and other researchers. Staying updated on the latest techniques and safety protocols is also essential for success in this dynamic research environment.

What is the difference between High Pressure Physics Postdoc vs Materials Scientist?

AspectHigh Pressure Physics PostdocMaterials Scientist
Required credentialsPhD in Physics, specialized in high pressure experimentsPhD in Materials Science or related field
Work environmentResearch labs, universities, national labs with high-pressure equipmentIndustrial labs, research centers, academia focusing on material development
Industry usageAcademic research, fundamental physics studiesProduct development, material testing, applied research

High Pressure Physics Postdocs focus on fundamental physics under extreme conditions, often in academic or research settings. Materials Scientists work on developing and testing new materials, typically in industrial or applied research environments. While both roles require advanced degrees and involve laboratory work, their primary goals and industry applications differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a High Pressure Physics Postdoc, and why are they important?

To thrive as a High Pressure Physics Postdoc, you need a PhD in physics or a related field, with expertise in condensed matter or materials science and experience in high-pressure experimental techniques. Familiarity with diamond anvil cells, synchrotron radiation, advanced spectroscopy, and data analysis software is typically required. Strong problem-solving, collaboration, and scientific communication skills set candidates apart in this research-intensive role. These abilities are crucial for advancing experimental research, publishing findings, and contributing to interdisciplinary scientific teams.
Infographic showing various High Pressure Physics Postdoc job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% Internship, and 89% Full Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution.
Heliospheric Physics Postdoctoral Researcher

Heliospheric Physics Postdoctoral Researcher

Los Alamos National Laboratory

Los Alamos, NM

$97K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Los Alamos National Laboratory rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

What You Will Do
The Space Science and Applications Group (ISR-1) at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is looking for postdoctoral researchers in heliospheric physics. The successful candidates are expected to carry out original research related to understanding particle energization and acceleration mechanisms in the solar wind and/or the structure and evolution of the outer heliosphere through analysis of data from the recently launched IMAP mission. ISR-1 is the lead institution for two IMAP instruments, the Solar Wind Electron (SWE) investigation, and the IMAP-Hi energetic neutral atom (ENA) imager. Additional opportunities in the study of heliophysics, including magnetospheric science, are potentially available. Required skills for the candidate include experience in the analysis of data from heliophysics missions (e.g., solar wind, outer heliosphere, magnetospheric, etc. missions).
ISR-1 is part of the Intelligence and Space Research (ISR) division at LANL. We specialize in building, operating, and analyzing data from space-based instruments for a range of national security and basic science missions and are supported by many different government agencies including the DOE, DOD, and NASA. If you are passionate about space, knowledgeable about heliophysics, and excited to work with a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and technicians then this is a great opportunity for you!

What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:

Minimum Job Requirements:
  • A Ph.D. in space physics completed within the last five years, or soon to be completed. Outstanding candidates with experience in other relevant fields (e.g., astrophysics, plasma physics, ...) will also be considered.
  • Passion to learn and collaborate with researchers from different fields.
  • Experience in observational data analysis of space and heliospheric physics.
  • Programming/coding experience (e.g., Python, IDL, C++)
  • Demonstrated ability to publish in scientific journals, and to communicate effectively, both written and orally.

Education/Experience
By the start of the position the applicant must have completed a Ph.D. in a relevant STEM field.
Desired Qualifications:
  • Experience with space plasma/ENA instrumentation and calibration techniques
  • Experience with modelling of space plasma and particle detection instrumentation (e.g., SIMION, SRIM)

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.
Salary: Competitive salaries are based on the date the PhD degree requirements were completed or the degree was awarded. Starting salary for a new graduate is currently $97,000. For more information go to Postdoc Program website at https://www.lanl.gov/careers/career-options/postdoctoral-research/index.php
Note to Applicants:
  • For full consideration, please submit (A) a cover letter describing background and relevant experience, (B) a full CV/resume, and (C) contact information for three professional references.
  • This appointment is valid for two years with a possible third year extension.
  • Minimum starting salary for a postdoctoral researcher is $97,000 and can increase with post-PhD experience and fellowships.
  • US citizenship is not a requirement
  • Review of applications will begin as soon as applications are received and until the position is filled
  • Strong candidates may be eligible for a Laboratory fellowship. See https://www.lanl.gov/careers/career-options/postdoctoral-research/postdoc-program/postdoc-appointment-types.php
  • for details.
  • For additional information, please contact Dan Reisenfeld (dreisenfeld@lanl.gov ) or Ruth Skoug (rskoug@lanl.gov).

Note to Applicants:
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.
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.
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.

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