Solar Fuels and Hydrogen Production Research Scientist

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s (LBNL ) Chemical Sciences Division  has an opening for a Solar Fuels and Hydrogen Production Research Scientist to join the team.

 

What You Will Do:

Technical:

• Training of users and upkeep of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), x-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS), atomic force microscopy (AFM), atomic layer deposition (ALD), sputtering and e-beam evaporation tools, gas chromatographs, high-performance liquid chromatographs (HPLC), Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), newly acquire small/wide angle X-ray scattering instrument.
• Provide resolution for technical and safety problems of complex scope where analysis of relevant factors requires advanced critical thinking.
• Provide consultation and oversight to contractors ensuring proper SJHA.
• Perform safety-related laboratory chemistry work (e.g. peroxide testing, chemical spill clean-up, chemical management, and waste management) and upkeep of safety documentation in support of division projects and scientists and collaborate with the Safety Coordinators and their staff, as well as with Environment, Health & Safety.
• Partner with the Engineering Division for management and oversight of electrical surveys and inspections for Chemical Sciences Divisions.

Scientific

• Work as a part of the HydroGEN consortium within the Energy Materials Network (EMN), funded by DOE’s Fuel Cell Technologies Office, consisting of six U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) national laboratories LBNL, NREL, LLNL, SNL, INL and SRNL, and as a part of the Liquid Sunlight Alliance (LiSA). 
• Characterize the chemical transformations of (photo)electrochemical (PEC) assemblies via conventional characterization techniques, as well as to assemble, test, and analyze data related to fuel cells and electrolyzer cells.
• Execution of materials characterization using techniques such as but not limited to: scanning electron microscopy (SEM), x-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), PL, and (photo)electrochemistry.
• Synthesis of light absorbers, catalysts, and fabrication of photoelectrochemical assemblies
• Execution of synthesis spanning physical and chemical vapor deposition, atomic layer deposition, sol-gel synthesis, electrodeposition, wet synthesis. 
• Study of electrochemically or photoelectrochemically driven processes and related data analysis. 

What is Required:

• Ph.D. in physics, or materials science, physical chemistry, materials engineering, or related experimental field or equivalent or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Broad knowledge of semiconductors and light absorbing materials, and integration of protective coatings and catalysts. 
• Experience with use, debugging, and maintenance of instrumentation.
• Experience in writing papers supported by publication record.
• Working in teams effectively, and communicating ideas and results effectively to different audiences
• Experience balancing multiple projects and tasks in parallel.
• Deep commitment to research, especially team-based efforts.
• Ability to balance multiple projects and tasks in parallel.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated leadership skills and the ability to work effectively with colleagues at all career stages, and with varying scientific and technical backgrounds.
• Demonstrated accomplishment in developing and utilizing characterization techniques and analysis.
• Methods for materials studies at both the nanoscale and the macroscale are a plus.
• Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Deep understanding and experience with laboratory safety practices.

 

Required Application Materials:

• CV
• Cover Letter
• Statement of Research describing your research experience and interests aligned with this position. (3-5 pages max)

 

This position will remain open until filled.

 

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 two years, career-track term appointment that may be renewed to a maximum of five years and that may be converted to career based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds, and ongoing operational needs.
• This position will be hired at a level commensurate with the business needs and the skills, knowledge, and abilities of the successful candidate.
• 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.

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