Join our team at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab's (LBNL ) Chemical Sciences (CSD ) Division as a Postdoctoral Scholar in developing X-Ray and vibrational spectroscopy techniques coupled to microfluidics. 

In this role, you will contribute to the development of a multimodal-in situ experimental platform for controlling the latent heat in phase change materials (PCMs) for thermal energy storage. You will leverage the potential of metal organic compounds with hydrogen and coordination bonds to modulate phase transition through inter and intramolecular interactions. By employing an advanced, multimodal characterization platform, that includes  in situ/multimodal Raman spectroscopy, X-ray scattering, ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy & synchrotron based Infrared Nano-spectroscopy at the Advanced Light Source, your work will provide molecular-level mechanistic insights into PCMs across various length and time scales.  Description of methods to be employed can be found in these publications.

• https://doi.org/10.1039/D2CP04375K ;

• https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xcrp.2022.100988 ;

• https://doi.org/10.1039/D1FD00123J ;

• https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1400502111 .

What You Will Do:

• Develop an experimental apparatus incorporating X-Ray scattering, X-Ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and IR-based Atomic Force Microscopy.

• Conduct research using synchrotron and laser-based spectroscopy, scattering, and imaging to probe phase change dynamics.

• Design and construct a novel microfluidic cell/reactor enabling in situ/multimodal Raman spectroscopy, X-ray scattering, ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and synchrotron-based infrared nano-spectroscopy.

• Develop lab-based methods for testing cells prior to their incorporation in synchrotron experiments.

• Prepare high-quality manuscripts reporting research findings for publication in peer-reviewed journals.

• Present research results at international conferences, utilizing excellent communication skills.

• Contribute to maintaining high safety standards, data records, documentation, and infrastructure within the research group.

• Provide research support, assistance, and instruction to other team members as needed.

• Foster a culture of safety and actively promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.

What is Required:

• Ph.D. in physics, materials science, physical chemistry, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related physical science discipline.

• Demonstrated background in experimental research, successfully leading projects from initiation to meaningful conclusions.

• Experience in designing and constructing experimental apparatus.

• Excellent oral and technical writing communication skills.

• Ability to quickly learn and integrate new fields, demonstrating creative problem-solving abilities.

• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills with the ability to work with researchers from diverse backgrounds.

• Independent researcher with a high level of scientific judgment and initiative.

• Commitment to adhering to ALS safety policies and procedures.

Desired Qualifications:

• Preferred experience in vibrational & X-Ray spectroscopy, X-Ray scattering, microfluidics.

• Familiarity with hardware/software interfacing for data collection. 

• Demonstrated ability to take initiative in cross-disciplinary research problems.

Notes:

• This position has an anticipated start date of October 1, 2023.

• 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.

• The monthly salary range for this position is $5,374 - $6,444. 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 is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes. Salary will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates and depends on years of experience post-degree.

• 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 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 13 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 .

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. 

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