Postdoctoral Scholar

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab has an exciting opportunity for a Postdoctoral Scholar to join the Laser Technologies Group. In this exciting role, you will participate in the field of ultrafast laser-ablation and advanced plasma diagnostics. Research will focus on optimization and control of fundamental mechanisms of pulsed laser matter interactions for the development of advanced processing techniques and optical spectroscopies. The goal of this project is the development of cutting-edge laser ablation sampling and processing techniques for advanced manufacturing and plasma spectroscopy, by unveiling fundamental processes.

What You Will Do:

• Experience with design, building, testing, and operating new laser-based experimental setups for pulsed laser ablation and advanced in situ diagnostics to study fundamental processes in plasmas.

• Expertise in optical system design and class 4 lasers.

• Prior experience with design and implementation of in situ diagnostics during laser-matter interactions.

• Experience in synchronization and automation involving multiple components, including laser, automated mirrors, translation stages, optical diagnostics, etc., 

• Under PI guidance, function independently and provide research support and assistance to other members of the group.  

• Prepare and conduct technical presentations for internal and external audiences. 

• Report research results in peer-reviewed journals and conferences.

• Carry out collaborative research with staff scientists, postdoc fellows, visiting researchers, and students. 

• Adhere with ETA and EH&S safety guidelines and requirements. 

Additional Responsibilities as needed:

• Experience with ultrafast lasers and pump-probe experimentation.

• Experience in optical, chemical, and morphological characterization (SEM, White-light interferometry, UV-Vis, FTIR, etc.).

• Prior experience in interferometric techniques, spatial light modulators, or Orbital Angular Momentum beams. 

• Theoretical modeling capabilities in support of experimental efforts.

What is Required:

• Ph.D. in experimental Physics, Engineering, Chemistry or other related field.

• Experience in diverse pulsed laser-based ablation, processing, and plasma diagnostics techniques.

• Demonstrated ability in construction of complex experimental pulsed laser ablation systems, equipment synchronization, and pulsed laser operation and alignment.  

• Advanced optics design expertise.

• Ability as an innovative experimentalist with a broad range of experience in experimental design, techniques, and execution.

• Ability to work as an independent researcher and as a member of a diverse research team, collaborating toward goals, solving problems, and developing scientific ideas.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to author technical and/or scientific writing and present work in conference and review meetings.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience with ultrafast laser systems and femtosecond laser ablation processes.

• Experience in computer software for optical design (e.g., Zemax).

• Experience with various optical and morphological characterization techniques such as SEM, EDX, Raman, UV-Vis spectrophotometry, FTIR, etc. Familiarity with diagnostic data interpretation and correlation.  

For Consideration, please apply by December 5, 2023 with the following application materials:

• Cover Letter - Describe your interest in this position and the relevance of your background

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume

Want to learn more about Berkeley Lab's Culture, Benefits and answers to FAQs? Please visit: https://recruiting.lbl.gov/

Notes:

• 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.

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

• The monthly salary range for this position is $5,374.00 / mo - $7,316.00 / mo and is expected to start at $6,626.00 / mo 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 and/or related research experience.

• 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 primarily performed at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.

 

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.