Material Science Postdoc Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring a Chemist Postdoctoral Scholar within the Energy Technologies and Systems division. You will direct and carry out diagnostic investigations of advanced energy storage systems; define the fundamental issues affecting rechargeable battery performance, study the nature of physico-chemical properties of interfaces, nanostructures, and the mechanism of electrochemical and chemical phenomena that determine the behavior of the electrochemical energy storage systems; characterize electrodes used in rechargeable batteries; prepare research publications, presentations and reports, assure the smooth operation of the electrochemical laboratories in Building 70.

This position has an anticipated start date of June 1, 2026.

We're here for the same mission, to bring science solutions to the world. Join our team and YOU will play a supporting role in our goal to address global challenges! Have a high level of impact and work for an organization associated with 17 Nobel Prizes!

Why join Berkeley Lab?

We invest in our employees by offering a total rewards package you can count on:

• Exceptional health and retirement benefits, including pension or 401K-style plans

• A culture where you'll belong - we are invested in our teams!

• In addition to accruing vacation and sick time, we also have a Winter Holiday Shutdown every year.

• Parental bonding leave (for both mothers and fathers)

You will:

• Develop and apply modern advanced optical and x-ray spectroscopy and microscopy techniques for the characterization, modification and control of model silicon and other intermetallic anodes and their electrode/electrolyte interfaces in Li-ion rechargeable batteries. These techniques include optical in situ characterization methods such as, Raman, FTIR spectroscopy/microscopy, ellipsometry, TERS, near-field nano-FTIR techniques, scanning probe microscopy, XPS and X-ray absorption, and standard electrochemical techniques.

• Develop and deploy novel instrumental techniques to study kinetic properties of electrode/electrolyte interfaces at adequate chemical, special and temporal resolution.

• Design and perform ex situ and in situ experiments on electrode samples from functioning Li-ion batteries as well as cell model systems.

• Process, analyze and present experimental data. This includes applying computer analysis and simulation programs to interpret experimental data and characterize battery electrode materials and interfaces. Adapt and combine various characterization techniques, develop innovative experimental approaches and improved methodologies for the treatment of experimental data. This work will focus on developing these techniques to understanding kinetic and dynamic phenomena at these interfaces and many of the experiments will be performed at the Advanced Light Source, a DOE User Facility.

• Collaborate in the development of new research proposals and new scientific initiatives.

• Participate in collaborative efforts with industrial partners as a member of a diverse research team.

• Prepare manuscripts, reports and presentations.

• Carry out collaborative research with research associates, post-doctoral fellows, visiting scientists and students with frequent meetings and discussions.

• Prepare materials for submissions and presentations to sponsors.

• Participate in and present results at selected meetings and seminars.

• Adhere with ETA and Lab safety requirements and complete required training on time.

We are looking for:

• Ph.D. in the chemical or material sciences and demonstrated proficiency and competency in the application of advanced characterization techniques to study electrochemical phenomena.

• Strong experience in the use of in situ spectroscopy and microscopy, image processing, data simulation, modeling and numerical analysis of spectroscopic and microscopic data.

• Strong experience in fundamental electrochemistry.

• Ability to work as an independent researcher with a high level of scientific judgment and initiative.

• Excellent communication both verbal and written and presentation skills.

• Ability to prepare materials for presentation at meetings and workshops.

• Good organization skills.

Desired skills/knowledge:

• Knowledge of chemistry of rechargeable battery systems.

• Familiarity with contemporary scientific challenges in battery science and technology.

For consideration, please apply with the following application materials:

• Cover Letter - Describe your interest in this position and the relevance of your background.

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume.

Additional information:

• Appointment type: 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.