Experimental Artificial Intelligence/ Machine Learning Scientist (Scientist 2)

What You Will Do
The Center for Integrated Nanotechnologies (CINT) at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) invites applications for a scientist position in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) with a focus on experimental nanoscience. CINT is a Department of Energy Office of Science Nanoscale Science Research Center operated jointly by Los Alamos and Sandia National Laboratories. At LANL, CINT focuses on integrated and collaborative research at the intersection of nanoscience and technology, offering world-class facilities and a vibrant scientific community. Scientific thrusts in CINT include: Nanophotonics and Optical Nanomaterials; Quantum Materials Systems; Soft, Biological and Composite Nanomaterials; and In-Situ Characterization and Nanomechanics. Additional information on the user facility is available at https://cint.lanl.gov .

We are seeking a highly motivated and innovative scientist to lead the integration of AI/ML with experimental nanoscience, supporting and advancing the needs of a dynamic, multidisciplinary user community. This individual will play a key role in shaping the future of AI/ML-enhanced experimentation at the forefront of nanotechnology research.
Scientist 2 ($104,100 – $172,200):
As part of the CINT scientific staff, you will:
• Develop and lead an independent, high-impact research program in experimental AI/ML, aligned with the mission of CINT and LANL.
• Collaborate closely with experimentalists across disciplines to develop and apply AI/ML methods that accelerate discovery and deepen understanding in nanoscale science.
• Publish in high-impact journals and present research at national and international conferences.
• Engage with and support the CINT user community, helping to integrate AI/ML approaches into collaborative experimental projects.

What You Need

Minimum Job Requirements:
• Demonstrated expertise in AI/ML, especially as applied to experimental data or scientific instrumentation.
• Experience working with experimental platforms such as materials synthesis, microscopy, spectroscopy, or materials characterization tools.
• Experience in coding software for AI applications.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to obtain a Q clearance (which requires U.S. citizenship).

Experience/Education: Positions requires a Bachelor’ degree in a STEM field from an accredited college and university and 4 years of related experience, typically with post-doctoral research experience at a university or national lab or equivalent experience directly related to the occupation

Desired Qualifications:
• Ph.D. in physics, chemistry, materials science, computer science, engineering, theory, or a related field.
• Strong publication record in relevant areas.
• Experience with autonomous experimentation, data-driven materials discovery, or active learning in experimental settings.
• Demonstrated experience securing external funding or leading multidisciplinary research efforts.

Note to Applicants: For full consideration, please submit a detailed cover letter and CV (with publications) addressing how you meet the minimum job requirements and relevant desired skills.
For further technical information or questions, please contact the ICNM Thrust leadership Dr. Nan Li () and Dr. Michael Pettes ()

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.

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.

Position Commitment: Regular appointment employees are required to serve a period of continuous service in their current position in order to be eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the time required, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. The position commitment for this position is 1 year.
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.

Clearance: Q (Position will be cleared to this level). Selected applicants will be subject to a background investigation conducted by or on behalf of the Federal Government, and must meet eligibility requirements* for access to classified matter. This position requires a Q clearance. and obtaining such clearance requires US Citizenship except in extremely rare circumstances. Dependent upon the position, additional authorization to access classified information may be required, which may or may not be available to dual citizens. Receipt of a Q clearance and additional access authorization ultimately is a decision of the Federal Government and not of Triad.
• Eligibility Requirements: To obtain a clearance, an individual must be at least 18 years of age; U.S. citizenship is required except in very limited circumstances. See DOE Order 472.2 for additional information.

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.

Regular Position: Term status Laboratory employees applying for regular-status positions are converted to regular status.

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 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 or call (505)-664-6947 opt. 3.

Company:

Los Alamos National Laboratory

Qualifications:

Language requirements:

Specific requirements:

Educational level:

Level of experience (years):

Senior (5+ years of experience)