Research Assistant / Student Researcher

Job Description

Job Title: Research Assistant / Student Researcher (Numerical Methods, Machine Learning, Computational Physics)

Company Description:
Join Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) and make YOUR mark on the World! LLNL is a global leader, turning bold ideas into world-changing impact by advancing science and technology to strengthen U.S. security and promote global stability. Our mission encompasses four critical national security areas: nuclear deterrence, threat preparedness, energy security, and multi-domain defense. We empower teams to tackle the toughest challenges of today and tomorrow within a culture built on innovation and operational excellence, where your expertise can truly make a real impact.

Job Summary:
LLNL’s Strategic Deterrence Directorate is seeking talented graduate-level students and individuals who have recently completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree to engage in practical research. This is an exciting opportunity to further your educational goals by providing technical and/or research support to critical projects. You will contribute to cutting-edge work in areas such as numerical methods, machine learning, computational physics, and other related scientific fields.

Work Arrangement:
This position may offer a hybrid schedule, blending in-person and virtual presence, potentially allowing for flexibility to work from home one or more days per week, depending on your specific assignment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide technical and/or research support to projects, collaborating closely with scientists, engineers, and technical staff members.
• Support the documentation, testing, creation, or modification of Laboratory software, hardware, or computer operating systems.
• Conduct assigned research under limited direction and supervision.
• Perform technical assignments of a basic degree of complexity, offering technical support to scientists in scientific research and development projects.
• Present work through presentations and/or poster sessions.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support project goals.

Qualifications:

• Must be a continuing college or university student in good standing at an accredited institution pursuing a graduate degree, OR have successfully completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Physics, Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience applying advanced principles of physics, engineering, and/or computer science to solve technical problems.
• Ability to conduct research, present and communicate concepts and ideas effectively, including documenting work and delivering technical talks/presentations.
• Possess effective interpersonal skills with the ability to thrive in a team environment.
• Strong academic achievement in engineering, scientific, and/or technical curriculum.
• Experience working with computers and familiarity with standard software such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Qualifications We Desire:

• Coding experience (e.g., Python, C++).
• A GPA of 3.5 or above.

Application Deadline: March 06, 2026

Compensation:
$10,215 Monthly
Please note that the pay is determined by California’s Computer Professional Exemption.

Additional Information:

• All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
• Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?
• Included in 2026 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
• Holiday Pay
• Sick leave accrual
• Individual 401(k) contributions
• Our values – visit https://www.llnl.gov/inclusion/our-values

Security Clearance:
None required for this position. However, this role involves U.S. Export Control, meaning this work must be performed by a U.S. person (U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident, U.S. national, or U.S. protected individual such as a refugee or asylee).
If your assignment cumulatively exceeds 179 days within a calendar year, you will be required to undergo the Personal Identity Verification process, which includes completing an online background investigation form and receiving approval of the background check (this does not apply to foreign nationals).

Pre-Employment Drug Test:
External applicants selected for this position must successfully pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for the use of marijuana, as Federal Law applies to LLNL as a Federal Contractor.

Wireless and Medical Devices Policy:
Per Department of Energy (DOE) regulations, LLNL must adhere to certain restrictions on the use and/or possession of mobile devices in Limited Areas. Depending on your job duties, you may be required to work in such areas where personal and/or laboratory mobile devices (e.g., cell phones, tablets, fitness devices, wireless headphones, Bluetooth/wireless enabled devices) are not permitted. If you use a medical device that pairs with a mobile device, you must still comply with these rules. Hearing aids without wireless capabilities or with wireless disabled are permitted in Limited Areas, Secure Space, and Transit/Buffer Space within buildings; Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities require separate approval.

How To Identify Fake Job Advertisements:
Be aware of recruitment scams. LLNL never extends an offer without a personal interview and will never charge a fee for joining our company. All current job openings are exclusively displayed on the “Find Your Job” section of our official Careers Page. If you encounter a suspicious job posting or offer, we strongly recommend you do not respond. Learn more about recruitment scams here.

Equal Employment Opportunity:
LLNL is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status, age, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.

Reasonable Accommodation:
We are dedicated to creating an accessible and inclusive experience for all candidates. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or recruiting process, please submit a request using our online form.

California Privacy Notice:
In compliance with the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), LLNL notifies job applicants, employees, and non-employee workers of what personal information is collected and for what purpose. The Employee Privacy Notice can be accessed here.