Join us and make YOUR mark on the World!

Are you interested in joining some of the brightest talent in the world to strengthen the United States’ security? Come join Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) where our employees apply their expertise to create solutions for BIG ideas that make our world a better place.

We are committed to a diverse and equitable workforce with an inclusive culture that values and celebrates the diversity of our people, talents, ideas, experiences, and perspectives. This is essential to innovation and creativity for continued success of the Laboratory’s mission.

We have an opening for a Postdoctoral Researcher to conduct in situ characterization of a range of materials science systems using X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, small angle x-ray scattering, and radiography using synchrotron and/or laboratory based sources.  You will actively participate in research on energy storage systems (e.g., redox flow batteries) and bio-inspired molecular assembly (e.g., peptoid-based membrane formation). This position is in the Nanoscale Integration Science Group of the Materials Science Division.

In this role you will

• Perform fundamental and applied experimental work in the field of in-situ X-ray spectroscopies, X-ray diffraction, and/or X-ray scattering using synchrotron or laboratory-based X-ray sources.
• Conduct experimental research to characterize degradation processes in energy storage materials and/or bio-inspired molecular assembly.
• Pursue independent but complementary research interests and interact with a broad spectrum of scientists internally and externally to the Laboratory.
• Collaborate with scientists in multidisciplinary team environment to accomplish research goals.
• Maintain and establish laboratory protocols.
• Document research; publish papers in peer-reviewed journals, and present results within the DOE community and at conferences.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• This posting requires U.S. Citizenship (Permanent Residence does not meet this requirement). Applicants without U.S. citizenship are not eligible to apply.
• PhD in Condensed-Matter Physics, Physical Chemistry, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience using X-ray diagnostics, e.g., X-ray spectroscopies, X-ray diffraction, and/or X-ray scattering for materials characterization.
• Publication record and experience in the structural characterization of energy storage/conversion materials and/or molecular assembly.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills as reflected in effective presentations at seminars, meetings and/or teaching lectures.
• Initiative and interpersonal skills with desire and ability to work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.

Qualifications We Desire

• Experience in the use of synchrotron facilities
• Experience in the application and/or development of capabilities for in situ characterization of dynamic processes with X-ray diagnostics.
• Working knowledge of complementary materials characterization techniques, e.g., transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infra-red spectroscopy, and/or scanned probe microscopy.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Position Information

This is a Postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of extension to a maximum of three years.  Eligible candidates are those who have been awarded a PhD at time of hire date.

Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?

• Included in 2022 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
• Work for a premier innovative national Laboratory
• Comprehensive Benefits Package
• Flexible schedules (*depending on project needs)
• Collaborative, creative, inclusive, and fun team environment

Learn more about our company, selection process, position types and security clearances by visiting our Career site . 

Security Clearance

None required.  However, this position involves U.S. Export Control; this work must be performed by a U.S. person (U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident, U.S. national, or U.S. protected individual (e.g., refugee, asylee)).

If your assignment is longer than 179 days cumulatively within a calendar year, you must go through the Personal Identity Verification process.  This process includes completing an online background investigation form and receiving approval of the background check.  (This process does not apply to foreign nationals.)

For additional information, please see DOE Order 472.2 (link is external) . 

Pre-Employment Drug Test

External applicant(s) selected for this position will be required to pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.

Equal Employment Opportunity

LLNL is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to providing candidates and employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. We value and hire a diverse workforce as it is a vital component of our culture and success. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status, age, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.

LLNL invites you to review the Equal Employment Opportunity posters which include EEO is the Law (link is external) and Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision (link is external) .

Reasonable Accommodation

At LLNL, our goal is to create an accessible and inclusive experience for all candidates applying and interviewing at the Laboratory.  If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please submit a request via our online form . 

California Privacy Notice

The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) grants privacy rights to all California residents. The law also entitles job applicants, employees, and non-employee workers to be notified of what personal information LLNL collects and for what purpose. The Employee Privacy Notice can be accessed here .