Machine Learning Physics Graduate Student

We have multiple openings for Machine Learning Graduate Student Interns to engage in practical research experience to further their educational goals. You will work on multidisciplinary projects, such as development of classical empirical and machine learning interatomic potentials, discovery of partial differential equations (PDEs), numerical solutions of partial differential equations to model material behavior at continuum scale and analysis of large atomic datasets. These positions are in in the Equation of State Materials Theory Group of the Physics Division of the Physical & Life Sciences Directorate.

This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work.

You will 

• Develop parallel C/C++/Python codes to train, test and evolve (a) PDEs (for phase field and phase field crystal models) discovered from data, and (b) interatomic potentials developed from quantum simulations.
• Explore the use of machine learning methods to discover and evolve PDEs for phase field and phase field crystal models.
• Analyze results, provide weekly updates and present work at poster sessions
• Review literature in the field of study, document results and write papers.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).  See Additional Information section below for details.
• Continuing student in good standing at an accredited institution of higher education pursuing a graduate degree in Physics or related field.
• Research background with a record of publication.
• Experience in writing codes (in C/C++ and Python) and a background in Materials Science/Engineering/Physics/Applied Mathematics.
• Excellent skills in written and verbal communication, as well as teamwork.

Qualifications We Desire

• Experience in parallel computing, porting codes to GPUs, experience in numerical solutions of partial differential equations.

Pay Range

$6,752 - $8,201 Monthly 

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

#LI-Onsite

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.  However, if your assignment is longer than 179 days cumulatively within a calendar year, you must go through the Personal Identity Verification process.  This process includes completing an online background investigation form and receiving approval of the background check.  

National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)

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.

Pre-Employment Drug Test

External applicant(s) selected for this position must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.

Wireless and Medical Devices

Per the Department of Energy (DOE), Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory must meet certain restrictions with the use and/or possession of mobile devices in Limited Areas. Depending on your job duties, you may be required to work in a Limited Area where you are not permitted to have a personal and/or laboratory mobile device in your possession.  This includes, but not limited to cell phones, tablets, fitness devices, wireless headphones, and other Bluetooth/wireless enabled devices.  

If you use a medical device, which pairs with a mobile device, you must still follow the rules concerning the mobile device in individual sections within Limited Areas.  Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities require separate approval. Hearing aids without wireless capabilities or wireless that has been disabled are allowed in Limited Areas, Secure Space and Transit/Buffer Space within buildings.

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We are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to providing all with 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.

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