Postdoctoral Scholar

The Chemical Sciences Division at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL ) offers a postdoctoral opportunity to synthesize and characterize solar-driven assemblies for CO2 reduction to solar fuels.

 

The project aims at finding novel light absorber/catalyst architecture that performs CO2 reduction towards higher hydrocarbon products selectively and efficiently. In this exciting role, you are part of the Liquid Sunlight Alliance, which is one of the projects by the Fuels from Sunlight Energy Innovation Hub funded by the U.S. Department of Energy in 2020. LiSA is led by Caltech and includes major partnerships at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, and university partners at UC Irvine, UC San Diego, and the University of Oregon. The incumbent will be expected to work on their own project focused on developing the new science of co-design of solar fuels systems as assemblies of chemical microenvironments. And, in addition, to work with other researchers pursuing similar goals.

 

What You Will Do:

• Synthesis of light absorbers and catalysts by means of different, suitable synthetic approaches.
• Integration of multiple layers into assemblies and their experimental interrogation
• 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), AFM, PL, and electrochemistry.
• Familiarity with building tools or modification of commercially available instruments.
• Design and fabrication of chemical reactors for photoelectrochemical CO2 reduction testing/product detection
• Working in teams and communicating ideas and results effectively to different audiences
• Knowledge of semiconductors and light absorbing materials.
• Study of electrochemically or photoelectrochemically driven processes.
• Emphasis on data analysis and interpretation.
• Report and participation to multi-partner project meetings as well as one-on-one and collective weekly meetings.
• Writing reports to detail activity performed.

 

What is Required:

• Ph.D. in physics, materials science and engineering, physical chemistry, chemical engineering, or related experimental or equivalent fields
• Experience with materials synthesis and characterization techniques
• Experience in the integration of protective coatings and catalysts.
• Experience with nanofabrication techniques and thin film device fabrication are a plus
• Experience in writing papers supported by publication record.
• Deep commitment to research.
• Ability to handle multiple projects and tasks in parallel.
• Strong publication record in scientific/technical journals.
• 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 backgrounds.
• Demonstrated record of accomplishment in developing and utilizing characterization techniques and analysis methods for materials studies at both the nanoscale and the macroscale are a plus
• Ability to handle multiple projects and tasks in parallel
• Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills
• Python and/or Matlab knowledge and CAD experience are a plus
• Deep commitment to safe laboratory operations

 

For full consideration, please apply by October 13, 2022. 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, 1 year, 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 4 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.
• Salary will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates.
• 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.

 

Based on University of California Policy – SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program and U.S Federal Government requirements, Berkeley Lab requires that all members of our community obtain the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as they are eligible. As a condition of employment at Berkeley Lab, all Covered Individuals must Participate in the COVID-19 Vaccination Program by providing proof that vaccination requirements have been met or submitting a request for Exception or Deferral. Visit covid.lbl.gov for more information.

 

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.