Postdoctoral Scholar

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s (LBNL ) Accelerator Technology and Applied Physics Division has an opening for a Postdoctoral Scholar to join the team.

In this role, you will work at the Accelerator Technology & Applied Physics (ATAP) Division to primarily conduct accelerator magnet superconductor and associated materials R&D and characterization. In this role, work will be performed within the Superconducting Magnet Program (SMP) as a member of a team of physicists, engineers, technologists, and students. This postdoc will perform both metallographic microscopy and non-destructive image analysis using Machine Learning (ML) models and Python script or equivalent, as well as perform room temperature and cryogenic temperature electrical and mechanical measurements.

What You Will Do:

• Perform mechanical characterization measurements and non-destructive data acquisition on superconducting cables fabricated at LBNL.
• Prepare metallographic samples and acquire cross-section images using optical and electron microscopy.
• Assist in the development of Machine Learning (ML) models and run image analysis scripts using ImageJ, FIJI, Python, or equivalent.
• Analyze and correlate results from different characterization techniques.
• Prepare extracted strand samples, including heat treatment, for residual resistance ratio measurements.
• Perform room temperature and cryogenic temperature electrical measurements.
• Assist data analysis and reporting of the electrical measurements.
• Contribute to Identifying and developing new techniques, processes and facility improvements related to cable fabrication and conductor characterization.
• Conduct original research independently and in collaboration in a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Present results at collaboration meetings, seminars, workshops and conferences, and publish in refereed journals.
• Participate in the on-going research and development for other materials characterization projects, including but not limited to the epoxy and insulation materials used in accelerator magnets.

What is Required:

• Ph.D. degree in Physics, Materials Science, or related subjects, within the last 3 years, preferably with substantial experience in applied superconductivity and cryogenics.
• Hands-on experience in preparing metallographic samples for microscopy, operating furnaces for heat treating samples in a retort.
• Working knowledge of operating lab solenoids and preparing superconducting wire or tape samples for critical current measurements.
• Working knowledge of programming in ImageJ / FIJI / Python and VBA in Excel.
• Good verbal and written communication and prioritization/organization skills.
• Ability to work productively, independently and collaboratively as part of a diverse team.

Desired Qualifications:

• Hands-on experience with optical and scanning electron microscopy.
• Hands-on experience with designing and fabricating critical current measurement sample holders.
• Experience in handling cryogens and in operating cryocooler and vacuum systems.
• Knowledge of advanced data analysis and visualization methods, including machine learning and neural network-based algorithms, is highly desirable.

Salary:

The monthly salary range for this position is $5,374-$7,510 and is expected to start at $6,542 or above. Postdoctoral positions are paid on a step schedule per union contract and salaries will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates. Each step represents one full year of completed post-Ph.D. postdoctoral experience.

How To Apply

Apply directly online and follow the on-line instructions to complete the application process.