Postdoctoral Scholar

The Physics Division at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) has an opening for a Postdoctoral Scholar to work on the project titled "Phonon Control for Next-Generation Superconducting Systems and Sensors" under the guidance of the group leader. Their focus will be on the development of two main applications using ultrahigh-frequency phononics tools.

 

The first application aims to use phonon traps to enhance the performance of superconducting qubits in quantum processors. The scholar will utilize simulations to inform the design of phonon cloaking, collaborate with microfabrication engineers to produce the device, and conduct tests in the lab to assess its functionality.

 

The second application seeks to improve the performance of superconducting sensors, including Transition Edge and Microwave Kinetic Inductance, for high-energy physics experiments through controlled phonon propagation. Directing phonons in a targeted manner can significantly boost the sensitivity of these systems, potentially transforming fields like the search for low-mass dark matter and paving the way for new applications.

 

The posting shall remain open until the position is filled, however for full consideration, please apply by December 1, 2023. Ideally, all reference letters should be included in the file by this date. 

 

What You Will Do:

• Work on instrumentation for the project with involvement in the design, fabrication, characterization, and analysis of the instrument.

• Assist in development of phonon control method, device fabrication and superconducting sensors development for HEP experiment applications.

• Conduct original research independently and in collaboration.

• Interact with LBNL and other investigators working on similar or related scientific problems.

• Prepare research papers for publication.

• Present research findings at seminars and conferences.

 

Additional Responsibilities as needed:

• May mentor Ph.D. students and undergraduate students.

• Other duties as assigned.

 

What is Required:

• Ph.D. or equivalent in physics.

• Experience in cryogenic instrumentation.

• Demonstrated ability to attain a high level of achievement as an independent researcher.

• Ability to work as a team member to accomplish goals.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

 

Desired Qualifications:

• Ability to mentor students.

• Experience in cryogenics.

• Experience in superconducting devices.

• Experience in microwave/RF device instrumentation.

 

How To Apply:

Please visit Academic Jobs Online to create a profile and submit the requested application materials. Note that applications can only be submitted via this Academic Jobs Online URL: https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/26504 . 

 

The following requested application materials listed below must be submitted through Academic Jobs Online:

Curriculum vitæ,

A list of up to ten relevant publications, including contributions for multi-author publications,

A statement describing current and future research interests (3-page limit excluding figures and references),

Arrange to have at least three letters of reference submitted (at least one reference from outside LBNL/UC Berkeley).

 

Salary: 

The monthly salary range for this position is $5,374 - $6,445 and is expected to start at $6,133 or above. 

 

Notes:

• This is a full-time, M-F, exempt from overtime pay (monthly paid), 2-year, postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, and continuing availability of funds, 

• You must have no more than thirty six months of paid postdoctoral experience when first assuming the position, and any extension is subject to the constraint of spending no more than five years total in a postdoctoral appointment,

• Salary for postdoctoral positions depends on years of experience post-degree and will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates,

• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes,

• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment,

• The primary location for this appointment will be the Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.

 

Learn About Us:

Berkeley Lab (LBNL) addresses the world’s most urgent scientific challenges by advancing sustainable energy, protecting human health, creating new materials, and revealing the origin and fate of the universe. Founded in 1931, Berkeley Lab’s scientific expertise has been recognized with 16 Nobel prizes. The University of California manages Berkeley Lab for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science.

 

Berkeley Lab’s Postdoc Program is committed to providing Postdoctoral Researchers and Visiting scholars with a positive and impactful experience to jump-start their career through premium research and career development, networking opportunities, mentoring programs, and a strong community.  For more information, please visit our Berkeley Lab Postdoc Resources site and our Berkeley Lab Postdoc Association site.

 

Berkeley Lab is committed to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accountability (IDEA) and strives to continue building community with these shared values and commitments. 

 

Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We heartily welcome applications from women, minorities, veterans, and all who would contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, inclusion, and professionalism. In support of our diverse global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.

 

Equal Opportunity and IDEA Information Links: Know your rights, click here for the supplement: Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law and the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision under 41 CFR 60-1.4.