Postdoctoral Scholar – Organic Spin Qubits & EPR Spectroscopy

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring a Postdoctoral Scholar – Organic Spin Qubits & EPR Spectroscopy within the Molecular Foundry division. This position will support a two-year research program on correlated organic spin systems for quantum information science (QIS). The primary purpose of this project is to establish chemically tunable organic radicals as a new materials platform for quantum spin qubits, quantum sensing, and spintronic devices. The incumbent will work at the interface of molecular synthesis, thin-film integration, and advanced spin characterization to advance systems from discrete molecular spins to correlated spin arrays and prototype device architectures. This position contributes to the development of molecular quantum materials within a DOE user facility environment, leveraging the Molecular Foundry’s synthesis, nanofabrication, and quantum-characterization infrastructure.

You will:

• Design, synthesize, and characterize persistent organic radical systems with controlled spin density, rigidity, and chemical functionality.
• Explore strategies for creating correlated spin arrays, utilizing techniques such as covalent linking, supramolecular assembly, and patterned nanostructures.
• Perform and analyze spin characterization measurements, including EPR and related techniques, to quantify spin lifetimes (T₁, T₂), g-tensors, and spin polarization.
• Assist in fabricating and testing prototype spintronic or quantum sensing device geometries in coordination with internal and external partners.
• Communicate results through internal presentations, peer-reviewed publications, and conference talks.
• Contribute to shared workflows, datasets, and user-accessible protocols supporting molecular QIS research at the Foundry.

We are looking for:

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Science, Physics, or a closely related field.
• Strong background in at least one of the following areas:
  • Organic or materials synthesis (radicals, conjugated molecules, or functional materials).
  • Spin physics or magnetic resonance techniques.
  • Solid-state or thin-film materials characterization.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research in a collaborative environment.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, evidenced by peer-reviewed publications.

Desired skills/knowledge:

• Proficiency in the synthesis and characterization of organic spin-bearing materials.
• Familiarity with EPR, ODMR, or related spin-coherence measurements.
• Experience with thin-film processing, nanofabrication, or device integration.
• Interest in quantum information science, quantum sensing, or spintronics.

Required Application Materials:

• CV
• Cover Letter (1 page)
• Publication List

Additional information:

• Application date: Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by February 5, 2026. Applications will be accepted until the job posting is removed.
• Appointment type: 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.
• Salary range: This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes. The salary range for this position is $84,336 - $94,020. 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.
• Background check: This position is 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 modality: 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.