Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s (LBNL ) Molecular Foundry Division invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher- AI-Driven Autonomous Materials Discovery to join our dynamic team. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in a collaborative and inclusive environment.
The primary objective of this project is to pioneer AI-driven autonomous materials discovery workflows using state-of-the-art robotic synthesis instrumentation. The focus will be on building workflows to accomplish robotic material growth within the Nanofabrication Quantum materials cluster tool and forthcoming hybrid materials synthesis robot. These state-of-the-art tools, with multi-million dollar investments, have been strategically chosen to expand material diversity and facilitate automated deposition and characterization processes. The project aims to harness the power of AI/ML strategies to efficiently unearth novel materials.

What You Will Do:

• Develop ML-driven techniques for materials growth, with a specific focus on quantum materials applications.

• Collaborate closely with Foundry scientists to refine and tailor interfacial properties of materials.

• Disseminate research findings through presentations at national conferences and authorship of publications.

• Offer research support, guidance, and instruction to fellow team members.

• Cultivate a culture of safety, while actively promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.

• Adherence to DOE and Berkeley Lab’s safety guidelines and safety culture, while actively contributing to an inclusive and supportive work environment for all. This includes a commitment to Berkeley Lab’s core mission on IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access).

What is Required:

• Recent Ph.D. (within the last 3 years) in Physics, Chemistry, Material Science, Computer Science or a closely related field.

• Proficiency in Python or another major programming language for data analysis, along with familiarity with machine learning approaches and laboratory instrumentation software control

• Strong organizational skills, encompassing the ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and contribute to the planning of a scientific research program.

• Exceptional oral and written communication skills, including the ability to organize technical/scientific information, publish in leading journals, and present at conferences.

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary research team with strong interpersonal skills.

Desired Qualifications:

• Knowledge of superconducting materials and devices.

• Proven background in experimental research, including leadership of projects from inception to conclusion, showcasing creative problem-solving abilities.

• Experience with spectroscopic techniques such as XPS, ellipsometry, optical spectroscopy.

• Background knowledge in materials or low-temperature physics.

Why Join Us:

• Work at the Molecular Foundry, collaborating with esteemed researchers from UC Berkeley, Sandia National Lab, and Boston University.

• Contribute to a vibrant research community dedicated to excellence in a supportive and inclusive environment.

• Access cutting-edge expertise and instrumentation in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.

• Be part of a Department of Energy-funded nanoscience research user facility, facilitating worldwide scientific collaboration.

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, 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.

• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.

• The monthly salary range for this position is $6,624.00 - $7,385.00. 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.

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.