Chemist Postdoctoral Scholar

LBL • $82K — $91K *
San Francisco, CA 94112In-Person
Energy & Utilities
Less than 5 years of experience
Reposted Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Ph.D. in chemical or material sciences with advanced characterization experience in electrochemical phenomena.
  • Strong background in in situ spectroscopy, microscopy, data simulation, and numerical analysis.
  • Expertise in fundamental electrochemistry is essential.
  • Independent research skills with strong scientific judgment and initiative.
  • Exceptional verbal and written communication, including presentation abilities.
  • Organizational skills for managing research documentation effectively.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and utilize advanced spectroscopy and microscopy techniques for characterizing battery anodes.
  • Conduct experiments on electrode samples from operational Li-ion batteries and model systems.
  • Analyze and present experimental data using computer simulation and analysis tools.
  • Collaborate on research proposals and innovative scientific projects within a diverse team.
  • Prepare manuscripts and reports, and present findings at meetings and seminars.
  • Ensure lab safety compliance and participate in required safety training.
  • Engage in regular collaboration with postdoctoral fellows and students.

Benefits

  • Access to advanced research facilities like the DOE's Advanced Light Source for experimental work.
  • Collaboration opportunities with industrial partners and a diverse research team.
  • Potential for renewal based on performance and funding availability.
  • Working in a premier research institution dedicated to energy technology advancements.
Full Job Description
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring a Chemist Postdoctoral Scholar within the Energy Technologies and Systems division. You will direct and carry out diagnostic investigations of advanced energy storage systems; define the fundamental issues affecting rechargeable battery performance, study the nature of physico-chemical properties of interfaces, nanostructures, and the mechanism of electrochemical and chemical phenomena that determine the behavior of the electrochemical energy storage systems; characterize electrodes used in rechargeable batteries; prepare research publications, presentations and reports, assure the smooth operation of the electrochemical laboratories in Building 70.

This position has an anticipated start date of June 1, 2026.

You will:
  • Develop and apply modern advanced optical and x-ray spectroscopy and microscopy techniques for the characterization, modification and control of model silicon and other intermetallic anodes and their electrode/electrolyte interfaces in Li-ion rechargeable batteries. These techniques include optical in situ characterization methods such as, Raman, FTIR spectroscopy/microscopy, ellipsometry, TERS, near-field nano-FTIR techniques, scanning probe microscopy, XPS and X-ray absorption, and standard electrochemical techniques.
  • Develop and deploy novel instrumental techniques to study kinetic properties of electrode/electrolyte interfaces at adequate chemical, special and temporal resolution.
  • Design and perform ex situ and in situ experiments on electrode samples from functioning Li-ion batteries as well as cell model systems.
  • Process, analyze and present experimental data. This includes applying computer analysis and simulation programs to interpret experimental data and characterize battery electrode materials and interfaces. Adapt and combine various characterization techniques, develop innovative experimental approaches and improved methodologies for the treatment of experimental data. This work will focus on developing these techniques to understanding kinetic and dynamic phenomena at these interfaces and many of the experiments will be performed at the Advanced Light Source, a DOE User Facility.
  • Collaborate in the development of new research proposals and new scientific initiatives.
  • Participate in collaborative efforts with industrial partners as a member of a diverse research team.
  • Prepare manuscripts, reports and presentations.
  • Carry out collaborative research with research associates, post-doctoral fellows, visiting scientists and students with frequent meetings and discussions.
  • Prepare materials for submissions and presentations to sponsors.
  • Participate in and present results at selected meetings and seminars.
  • Adhere with ETA and Lab safety requirements and complete required training on time.


We are looking for:
  • Ph.D. in the chemical or material sciences and demonstrated proficiency and competency in the application of advanced characterization techniques to study electrochemical phenomena.
  • Strong experience in the use of in situ spectroscopy and microscopy, image processing, data simulation, modeling and numerical analysis of spectroscopic and microscopic data.
  • Strong experience in fundamental electrochemistry.
  • Ability to work as an independent researcher with a high level of scientific judgment and initiative.
  • Excellent communication both verbal and written and presentation skills.
  • Ability to prepare materials for presentation at meetings and workshops.
  • Good organization skills.


Desired skills/knowledge:
  • Knowledge of chemistry of rechargeable battery systems.
  • Familiarity with contemporary scientific challenges in battery science and technology.


For consideration, please apply with the following application materials:
  • Cover Letter - Describe your interest in this position and the relevance of your background.
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume.


Additional information:
  • Appointment type: 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.
  • Salary range: The monthly salary range for this position is $6,891 / mo - $7,609.00 / mo and is expected to start at $6,891 / 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.
  • Background check: This position is 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 modality: This position will be performed on-site at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. Work schedules are dependent on business needs.


Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

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