Materials Synthesis Postdoctoral Scholar

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) is hiring a Materials Synthesis Postdoctoral Scholar to join our team. Talented and experienced PhD researchers are encouraged to apply for this competitive postdoctoral position utilizing autonomous characterization and reaction laboratories to develop new thermodynamic models for materials synthesis reactions. The candidate will join a diverse team of researchers from multiple disciplines at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and partner institutions, including National Laboratories, Universities, and Industry.

The goal: Develop high throughput approaches to experimentally characterize materials free energies and use this information to predict new material reaction mechanisms and pathways.

The challenge: Utilizing AI and autonomous laboratories to simplify the generation of experimental thermodynamic knowledge.

What You Will Do:

• Design and execute hypothesis-driven experiments to characterize thermodynamic properties relevant to materials synthesis.
• Perform calorimetry measurements (for example DSC, drop solution, acid solution, isothermal titration) and related techniques.
• Analyze experimental data and develop scientific models to predict reaction mechanisms and synthesis routes.
• Implement and refine machine control and automation for laboratory instrumentation using Python, C++, or similar languages.
• Build, operate, troubleshoot, and repair laboratory setups and custom equipment as needed.
• Publish results in peer-reviewed journals and present findings to internal and external audiences.
• Collaborate effectively with a diverse, multidisciplinary team across national labs, universities, and industry.
• Present at group meetings, Lab seminars, and conferences; support proposal writing.

What is Required:

• PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Computational Science, Data Science, Applied Mathematics, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in thermodynamics and calorimetry.
• Proficiency in data analysis and scientific model development.
• Experience with machine control or scientific programming in Python, C++, or comparable languages.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team.
• Hands-on experience with high-throughput or autonomous laboratory workflows.
• Experience integrating experimental data with computational methods for thermodynamic modeling.
• Background in designing or fabricating custom lab equipment and fixtures.

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 $5,562 - $9,136 and is expected to start at $7,716 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 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. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here).

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich 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, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.

Berkeley Lab is a University of California employer. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.