Postdoctoral Scholar - Advanced Characterization and Materials Development for Liquid Solar Fuels

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s (LBNL ) Chemical Science Division (CSD) has an opening for a Postdoctoral Scholar to join the Liquid Sunlight Alliance (LiSA) Team performing research at the Molecular Foundry. 

In this role, you will advance the science of liquid solar fuels and contribute to understanding and development of a photoelectrochemical CO2 reduction in a dynamic and highly collaborative environment. You will develop materials and correlative Spectro-microscopic workflows to characterize material and devices. In your work you will use advanced electron and optical methods at the Molecular Foundry to provide atomic-level insights linking the structure and performance of materials and electrochemical devices enabling performance optimization of photoelectrochemical systems for CO2 reduction.

What You Will Do:

• Investigate structure and properties of absorbers, catalysts, and protective coatings using Electron, optical and/or X-ray-based advanced characterization techniques.
• Collaborate with Foundry and LiSA scientists on material development and tailoring of interfacial properties.
• Develop correlative microscopy workflows that link structural information to optical properties and performance of photoelectrochemical devices.
• Participate in design and testing of photo-active materials and systems for CO2 reduction applications using spectroscopic techniques. 
• Collaborate with LiSA researchers on investigation of carrier dynamics and identification of active sites using in-operando ultrafast pump-probe spectroscopy. 
• Present research results at national conferences and author publications. 
• Provide research support, assistance and instruction to other team members as needed. 
• Foster a culture of safety and actively promote diversity, equity and inclusion.

What is Required:

• Recent Ph.D. (within the last 3 years) in Physics, Chemistry, Material Science or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated background in experimental research including leading projects from initiation to conclusion, demonstrating creative problem solving abilities. 
• Experience in electron microscopy as applied to characterization of semiconductors, catalysts and/or multilayer structures, including TEM sample preparation techniques like cross sectional polishing and Focused ion beam milling. 
• Strong organizational skills including the ability to prioritize work, meet deadlines, and contribute to the planning of a scientific research program. 
• Excellent oral and written communication skills including the ability to organize technical/scientific information, publish in top journals, and present at conferences. 
• Strong teamwork and interpersonal skills including the ability to collaborate with a diverse interdisciplinary research team. 
• Adhere to DOE and Berkeley Lab’s safety guidelines and safety culture, and contribute to an inclusive and supportive work environment for all. This includes carrying out Berkeley Lab’s core mission on IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access).

Desired Qualifications:

• Background in electrochemistry and electrochemical characterization methods. 
• Experience with electron based spectroscopic techniques such as EELS, EDS or Cathodoluminescence. 
• Experience with optical spectroscopic techniques like Raman, Photoluminescence, Ellipsometry, UV-Vis, or time-resolved spectroscopy. 
• Experience with thin film deposition techniques like atomic layer deposition, sputtering, and electron beam deposition. 
• Background knowledge in semiconductor physics and/or heterogeneous catalysis. 
• Familiarity with optical spectroscopic techniques like Raman, Photoluminescence, Ellipsometry. 
• Demonstrated knowledge of Python or another major programming language for data analysis and familiarity with machine learning approaches for data analysis.

Notes:

• For full consideration, please apply by January 5, 2024. Application for this position should include a one-page cover letter explaining your interest in this position and a CV including an annotated publication record stating your contributions or role in the published work.
• This position has an anticipated start date of February 1, 2024. 
• This is a full-time, 2 years, postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs. You must have less than 3 years of paid postdoctoral experience. Salary for Postdoctoral positions depends on years of experience post-degree. 
• The monthly salary range for this position is $5,374 - $7385. 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 and/or related research experience. 
• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes. Salary will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates and depends on years of experience post-degree. 
• 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. 
• Work will be performed at 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.

Working at Berkeley Lab has many rewards including a competitive compensation program, excellent health and welfare programs, a retirement program that is second to none, and outstanding development opportunities. To view information about the many rewards that are offered at Berkeley Lab- Click Here .

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. 

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