High Energy Density Science (HEDS) Center Graduate Student Intern - Summer 2025

Company Description

Join us and make YOUR mark on the World!

Are you interested in joining some of the brightest talent in the world to strengthen the United States’ security? Come join Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) where our employees apply their expertise to create solutions for BIG ideas that make our world a better place.

We are committed to a diverse and equitable workforce with an inclusive culture that values and celebrates the diversity of our people, talents, ideas, experiences, and perspectives. This is important for continued success of the Laboratory’s mission.

Pay Range

$6,620 - $8,040 Monthly

This position is under a step structure.  Please note that the step placement is determined by your most recent completed academic year.

Job Description

We have multiple openings for graduate students or students who have recently graduated with a bachelor’s or master’s degree to engage in practical research experience to further their educational goals. Opportunities include participation in projects lead by the LLNL scientists in the High Energy Density Science research areas, including: Laser-Matter Interactions; Inertial Confinement Fusion; Inertial Fusion Energy; Magnetic Confinement Fusion; Hydrodynamics; Kinetic Theory; Molecular Dynamics; Opacity; Equation of State; Charged Particle Transport; Nuclear Physics; Optical and X-Ray Imaging; Astrophysics and Planetary Science; Atomic Physics; and Accelerator Science. More information about these fields can be found here. These positions are with the LLNL High Energy Density Science (HEDS) center in the Physics Division.

Please submit both a curriculum vitae and a cover letter. The cover letter should include a list of LLNL staff members you have spoken to (if any), your preference for experiment, theory, or simulation, a ranked list of, at most, three of the above research areas, why you wish to work at LLNL, how LLNL can help your career, and how you would like to contribute to HEDS research at LLNL.

The HEDS center at LLNL is a focal point for connecting experts around the world with the extensive experimental and computational capabilities at LLNL.  The center's mission is to strengthen fundamental research collaborations in the field of HEDS between LLNL and the academic community, and to enhance educational opportunities in HED science for students.  Details about LLNL's High Energy Density Science Center may be found at: https://heds-center.llnl.gov.

Summer positions are generally May-September with the possibility of extension. To receive full consideration, applications should be submitted by January 3, 2025.

Depending on your assignment, this position may offer a hybrid schedule, blending in-person and virtual presence. You may have the flexibility to work from home one or more days per week. 

You will

• Learn how scientists perform research in experiment, theory, or modeling simulation.
• Under limited direction and supervision will learn how to conduct research in assigned area by using various simulation, data analysis or experimental techniques.
• Perform technical assignments of a basic degree of complexity and provide advanced technical support to scientists in scientific research and development projects to advance your education.
• Present work through presentations and/or poster sessions.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• The 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Section 3112, generally prohibits citizens of China, Russia, Iran and North Korea without dual US citizenship or legal permanent residence from accessing specific non-public areas of national security or nuclear weapons facilities.  The restrictions of NDAA Section 3112 apply to this position.  To be qualified for this position, Candidates must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112. 
• Must be a continuing student in good standing at an accredited institution pursuing a graduate degree or have recently graduated with a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
• Demonstrated academic achievement in Physics or related field.
• Experience applying basic physics principles to solve technical problems.
• Demonstrated effective communication skills.
• Ability to present and communicate concepts and ideas.
• Experience working with personal computers and familiarity with Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Ability to work in a team environment.
• Knowledge of operating PC and/or Macintosh computer to translate and report scientific data.

Qualifications We Desire

• GPA of 3.0 or above.

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