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.

Application Process  

We encourage all prospective applicants to apply directly to a specified position posted on the lanl.jobs website. Modifying your resume and cover letter for the desired job requirements as listed will make your application more competitive.

1. Interview by a Mentor - All postdocs must have a mentor/sponsor who is a lab staff member. By applying to a specific job ad, there is a mentor (or mentors) already identified with that position. The mentor(s) will review and downselect from all applicants.  They will contact you if you are under consideration for the position.
2. Create Postdoc Application Package - If selected for the specified position through an interview process, you and your potential mentor will work together to create your Postdoc Application Package. Requirements and instructions for creating the package.
3. Submit Postdoc Application Package - Submit a completed package to the Postdoc Program office via email at postdocprogram@lanl.gov. The Postdoctoral Committee will review all packages to ensure quality of the applicant and scope and relevance of proposed research to Los Alamos National Laboratory missions.

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.

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.

Salary Information

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