Postdoctoral Fellow

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab's (LBNL) Energy Analysis and Environmental Impacts Division (EAEI) has an opening for a Postdoctoral Fellow to join the team.

In this exciting role, you will be part of a small team pioneering novel material-based energy solutions and direct air capture techniques. The researcher will collaborate with the team to develop various material characterization and testing systems, as well as models within an RF/microwave environment. The research will also include creating digital twins of the experimental systems using finite element modeling tools to deepen our understanding of material response, adsorbate desorption, and bulk heating under RF/microwave environment.

What You Will Do:

• Collaborate with the PI and other researchers to design and set up various RF/microwave-based material characterization and testing systems.
• Build finite element models to investigate material response and thermal propagation under RF/microwave environment and for H2 storage system
• Build models for non-steady state heat/cooling processes and thermal management.
• Self-starter who is driven and capable of navigating ambiguities and uncertainties to drive outcomes.
• Work in a multidisciplinary team environment, including backgrounds in biology, chemistry, earth sciences, statistics, physics, energy technologies, materials science, engineering, and computer science.
• Analyze and summarize data and present findings at internal lab meetings and scientific conferences.
• Publish in peer-reviewed journals and contribute to scientific research papers and reports.

What is Required:

• Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Material Science, or related field.
• Strong knowledge of RF/microwave theory and thermodynamics.
• Hands-on experience with RF/microwave equipment (e.g. VNA, AWG, oscilloscope, signal generator, spectrum analyzer, horn antenna) for high-power applications (up to kW-scale).
• Strong knowledge of finite element modeling tools (e.g. HFSS, COMSOL, CST).
• Prior experience designing and testing RF/microwave cavities, antennas, and impedance matching devices is a plus.
• Proficiency with scientific programming (e.g. Python, Matlab).
• Evidence of ability to publish results in relevant journals.
• An ability to work in an integrated diverse team environment.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Keen interest in solving science and engineering challenges.

Desired Qualifications:

• Broader experience designing commercial/industrial-scale RF/microwave systems is a plus.
• Experience in configuring/testing/modifying experimental setup to achieve research goal is a plus.
• Broader experience working with H2 systems is a plus.
• Prior experience developing antennas, phased arrays, and cavities.
• Prior experience working on energy systems, decarbonization, and carbon dioxide removal.
• Experience with large and complex data sets.
• Keen interest in multi-disciplinary research to influence policy and technology development.

For Consideration, please apply by August 1, 2024 with the following application materials:

• Cover Letter - Describe your interest in this position and the relevance of your background
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume

Notes:

• This is a full-time, 2-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 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 $7,455 / mo - $8,326.00 / mo and is expected to start at $7,455 / 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.

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.

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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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