Postdoctoral Fellow – Materials Science and Quantum Technologies

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s (LBNL) Materials Science Division invites dynamic and talented individuals to apply for the exciting position of Postdoctoral Fellow – Materials Science and Quantum Technologies within the Molecular Foundry Division. Collaborate with renowned researchers from UC Berkeley, Sandia National Lab, and Boston University in the cutting-edge fields of materials growth, nanofabrication, and electron microscopy. Be at the forefront of scientific advancements in superconducting integrated circuits, contributing to the development of quantum processors and sensors that outperform classical counterparts.

Come be a part of the future of materials science! Apply now to contribute to groundbreaking research at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab.

What You Will Do:

• Develop materials and/or fabrication processes for phononic and superconducting devices, with a focus on detailed materials/device characterization.

• Collaborate with Foundry scientists to tailor interfacial properties and advance material development.

• Present research results at national conferences and contribute to publications, showcasing your impactful contributions.

• Provide research support, assistance, and instruction to fellow team members.

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

What is Required:

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

• Demonstrated background in experimental research including leading projects from initiation to conclusion, demonstrating creative problem solving abilities. 

• Experience in any combination of the following areas: 

• Physical and chemical deposition of thin films (e.g. reactive sputtering, CVD, ALD, e-beam evaporation, etc.).

• Thin film characterization (e.g. x-ray diffractometry, optical microscopy, XPS, optical spectroscopy).

• Analytical electron microscopy (TEM, STEM, EELS, etc.).

• Experimental quantum science.

• Cryogenic materials property measurements.

• Process development and optimization (nanofabrication and/or materials deposition).

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

• Excellent oral and written communication skills including the ability to organize technical/scientific information, write manuscripts, and present at conferences.

• Strong teamwork and interpersonal skills including the ability to collaborate with a diverse interdisciplinary research team.

• Adhere to DOE and Berkeley Lab’s safety guidelines and safety culture, and contribute to an inclusive and supportive work environment for all. This includes carrying out Berkeley Lab’s core mission on IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access).

Desired Qualifications:

• Knowledge of superconducting materials and devices.

• Experience with electron based spectroscopic techniques such as EELS, EDS or Cathodoluminescence.

• Background knowledge in materials or low temperature physics.

• Demonstrated knowledge of Python or another major programming language for data analysis and familiarity with machine learning approaches for data analysis.

For full consideration, please apply by December 6th, 2023. This position will remain open until filled. 

Notes:

• Application for this position should include a one-page cover letter explaining your interest in this position and a CV including an annotated publication record stating your contributions or role in the published work.

• This position has an anticipated start date of December 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 $7,455 - $8,326 and is expected to start at $7,455 or above. Postdoctoral positions are paid on a step schedule per union contract and salaries are 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.

• 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.

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 16 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. 

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.