Job Information
Los Alamos National Laboratory Foundation Models for Biological Postdoctoral Research Associate in Los Alamos, New Mexico
What You Will Do
The Genomics and Bioanalytics Group (B-GEN) at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is seeking multiple exceptional computational postdoctoral associates to join our research team and apply their expertise in a field with immense potential for groundbreaking discoveries and transformative impact. We are at the forefront of leveraging novel computational approaches, including both AI/ML and bioinformatics, to revolutionize research in biology and biomedicine. A successful candidate in this role can make a significant impact at the intersection of AI/ML and biological research while working alongside a team of colleagues and within a supportive environment.
As a postdoctoral researcher in B-GEN, you will have the unique opportunity to:
Conduct groundbreaking research in applied AI/ML, focusing on developing and implementing models to enhance biomolecule interaction prediction using LANL's state-of-the-art Institutional Computing resources.
Develop a set of foundation models that will advance biological and biomedical research, with applications in predicting the implications of mutated proteins, optimizing antibody sequences, and repurposing existing therapeutics.
Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team of LANL and external scientists, providing ample opportunities for high-impact publications.
Utilize multifaceted data, including extensive genomic information, to translate cutting-edge ML methods for understanding biological systems with crucial applications in infectious diseases, microbial ecology, biosurveillance, genotype-to-phenotype prediction, and modeling from proteins to systems.
While prior knowledge of fundamental biology is beneficial, it is not a prerequisite for this position since the primary focus will be on computing and code development. Outstanding applicants may be nominated for prestigious LANL-funded fellowships, enabling the pursuit of independent research.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
Demonstrated experience in developing machine learning models for solving scientific problems.
Demonstrated experience with programming in Python and other software languages.
Demonstrated experience in conducting original scientific research through peer reviewed publications.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Education/Experience : A PhD in computer science, physics, applied mathematics, bioinformatics, or related fields, completed within the last five years or soon to be completed.
Desired Qualifications:
Familiarity with best software engineering practices, including source code control in a team environment.
Experience in developing AI/ML algorithms from scratch.
Research experience in computational chemistry and biophysics.
Work Location: The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. This team has regular meetings that may require the candidate to work onsite in Los Alamos, NM. Any requests for tele work or hybrid work 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 $94,500. For more information go to Postdoc Program website at https://www.lanl.gov/careers/career-options/postdoctoral-research/index.php .
Note to Applicants: To complete your application, please provide a comprehensive CV, a cover letter that highlights your software development experience and qualifications for the job, and the names and contact details of three references. Only applications containing all the required information will be considered for the position. In addition to applying online on the LANL jobs site, qualified candidates can email a copy of their CV, cover letter, or any questions to Bin Hu ( bhu@lanl.gov ). For more information, visit LANL career page: https://www.lanl.gov/careers/index.php .
Candidates may be considered for a Director's Fellowship and outstanding candidates may be considered for the prestigious Marie Curie, Richard P. Feynman, J. Robert Oppenheimer, or Frederick Reines Fellowships. For general program information, refer to the Postdoc Program web page https://www.lanl.gov/careers/career-options/postdoctoral-research/postdoc-program/index.php
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 (https://directives.nnsa.doe.gov/supplemental-directive/sd-0206-0002) . 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 (https://int.lanl.gov/policy/documents/P701.pdf) for applicant eligibility requirements.
Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer and supports a diverse and inclusive workforce. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to 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 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 1-505-665-4444 option 1.