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Becoming a Postdoc

Explore the multiple dimensions of a career at Los Alamos National Laboratory in an inclusive environment that is rich in intellectual vitality and opportunities for growth.

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  • Application Process
  • Eligibility
  • Salary
  • Dates and Deadlines

Application Process  

There are two separate processes for applying to the postdoctoral program at Los Alamos National Laboratory. Prospective postdocs can either, 1) apply for a specified position posted by a potential sponsor on the lanl.jobs website, or 2) submit a general vacancy application for consideration. We encourage applicants to apply for specified positions on the lanl.jobs website as these positions are actively seeking applicants. Both processes are outlined below:

Selection for postdoc appointments is extremely competitive and determined by the candidate's academic qualifications, research excellence, demonstrated leadership and collaborative skills. Laboratory technical staff routinely review postdoctoral CVs, uploaded during the application process, and contact candidates who are a strong match for their research. After the application, there is an interview process, and, if selected, compilation of a postdoc package and research proposal. 

Eligibility & Appointments

  1. Ph.D. Completion

    Postdocs must have completed all Ph.D. requirements by their hire-on date.  A postdoc application and package can be submitted and approved prior to completion of PhD.

  2. Five Year Limit

    For all postdoc appointments, the date on which the package is submitted to the Postdoc Program Office must fall within five years of completing all requirements for the Ph.D., and not the date that the Ph.D./Diploma was awarded.

    Note: The Postdoc Program Office may grant exceptions to the Five-Year Limit in cases of sufficiently extenuating circumstances, such as a career break to raise a family. When any exception is requested, it must be communicated by e-mail including the following documentation:  CV, Ph.D. transcripts, diploma, and any other documentation provided by the Ph.D. granting university.

  3. Current Postdocs

    If a current LANL postdoc is being considered for a different appointment, the consideration must be within one year of the postdoc's original hire date and within the initial five years of receiving their PhD.

See below for specific eligibility requirements.

Appointment Type

Salary Information

Postdoctoral salaries are set on a scale system, starting at $97,000.

Important Dates & Deadlines

Postdoctoral research associate nominations are accepted year round. Postdoctoral fellow nominations are accepted on a quarterly basis. The review schedule and notification of fellow awards are outlined below.

Winter ReviewSponsored candidate packages are submitted in January, with outcome of review in February.
Spring ReviewSponsored candidate packages are submitted in April, with outcome of review in May.
Summer ReviewSponsored candidate packages are submitted in July, with outcome of review in August.
Fall ReviewSponsored candidate packages are submitted in October, with outcome of review in December.

Benefits

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Our comprehensive benefits package offers health coverage for you and your eligible family members today and financial plans to help you prepare for the future.

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