Are you passionate about applying computational methods and modeling to improve the understanding material microstructure and its impact on material performance under high-rate shock and other deformation processes? If so, you will want to consider applying for this opportunity to join our dynamic, multidisciplinary team. We are seeking a Postdoctoral Appointee to conduct research related to the mesoscale/continuum modeling of highly deformed materials, especially bcc metals.

On any given day, you may be called on to:

• Plan, conduct, and analyze computer simulations of high-rate material deformation to deduce mechanical, microstructural and/or plastic processes
• Synthesize materials knowledge to provide recommendations for additional and/or complementary research to provide clearer understanding of material properties and microstructural arrangements
• Work with Sandia staff in a collaborative team environment on multiscale projects as part of a dynamic technically-challenging research organization
• Effectively communicate accomplishments in presentations at international conferences and publications in peer-reviewed journals

Department Description:

The Computational Materials and Data Science Team provides advanced computational analysis that enables materials-based insight and solutions. Capabilities include model development for nanoscalar and mesoscalar materials evolution, interfacial dynamics, defect initiation and propagation, multivariate analysis, and signal processing. We conduct experiments in micromechanics and volumetric flaw distribution to validate our computational work. Our multidisciplinary background and materials science expertise enable mechanistic and physical understanding related to aging and wear of materials such as metals, semiconductors, biomaterials, and polymers in support of DOE nuclear and non-nuclear missions.

About Sandia:

Sandia National Laboratories is the nation’s premier science and engineering lab for national security and technology innovation, with teams of specialists focused on cutting-edge work in a broad array of areas. Some of the main reasons we love our jobs:

• Challenging work with amazing impact that contributes to security, peace, and freedom worldwide
• Extraordinary co-workers
• Some of the best tools, equipment, and research facilities in the world
• Career advancement and enrichment opportunities
• Flexible schedules, generous vacations, strong medical and other benefits, competitive 401k, learning opportunities, relocation assistance and amenities aimed at creating a solid work/life balance*

World-changing technologies. Life-changing careers. Learn more about Sandia at: http://www.sandia.gov

*These benefits vary by job classification.

EEO Statement:

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Required:

• Your education will include a PhD in Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics or a related discipline plus a bachelor's in a science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) discipline.
• You have experience in computational physics and materials analysis techniques for meso/continuum and/or microstructural study (e.g., crystal plasticity, kinetic Monte Carlo, Finite Element/Difference), or related simulation techniques
• Your effective communication skills are evidenced by a history of publication of results in peer- reviewed journals and external presentations at appropriate scientific conferences

Desired:

• You possess experience in simulation of extreme environments and high-rate dynamic deformation in metals, or other materials.
• Your background includes a knowledge of materials strength and deformation mechanisms (dislocation production/dynamics, twinning, etc.), at atomistic and meso scales.
• Experience demonstrating teamwork and positive customer interactions
• Proven ability to establish strong collaborations with both computational scientists and experimentalists
• Consistent track record of first-authorship papers in peer-reviewed publications or conference presentations
• Familiarity with Abacus, ALEGRA (or equivalent), especially to model extreme environments

Security Clearance:

This position does not currently require a Department of Energy (DOE) security clearance.

Sandia will conduct a pre-employment drug test and background review that includes checks of personal references, credit, law enforcement records, and employment/education verifications. Furthermore, employees in New Mexico must pass a U.S. Air Force background screen for access to Kirtland Air Force Base. Substance abuse or illegal drug use, falsification of information, criminal activity, serious misconduct or other indicators of untrustworthiness can cause access to be denied or terminated, resulting in the inability to perform the duties assigned and subsequent termination of employment.

If hired without a clearance and it subsequently becomes necessary to obtain and maintain one for the position, or you bid on positions that require a DOE security clearance, a pre-processing background review that includes checks of personal references, credit, law enforcement records, and employment/education verifications may be conducted prior to a required federal background investigation. Applicants for a DOE security clearance must be U.S. citizens. If you hold more than one citizenship (i.e., of the U.S. and another country), your ability to obtain a security clearance may be impacted.

This postdoctoral position is a temporary position for up to one year, which may be renewed at Sandia's discretion up to five additional years. The PhD must have been conferred within five years prior to employment.

Individuals in postdoctoral positions may bid on regular Sandia positions as internal applicants, and in some cases may be converted to regular career positions during their term if warranted by ongoing operational needs, continuing availability of funds, and satisfactory job performance.