Theoretical Chemistry and Spectroscopy Postdoc

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s (LBNL) Chemical Sciences Division has an opening for a Theoretical Chemistry and Spectroscopy Postdoc to join the team.

In this exciting role, you will provide a unique opportunity for computational chemistry development and applications, that broadens the perspective of the candidate for a comprehensive understanding of solid/liquid, solid/gas interfacial systems that is key in many renewable energy applications, i.e. battery, fuel cells, catalysis. A particular interest will be developing and applying spectroscopy modules to explain experimental observables.

What You Will Do:

• Implement computational spectroscopic modules in electronic structure theory software packages, including but not limited to Core Level Spectroscopy, Infrared, and Raman. Language can be anything of the candidate’s preference, such as Python, Fortran and etc. 
• Computational investigation of adsorption and catalytic reactions in realistic solid/liquid, solid/gas interfacial systems.
• Leverage observations from in-the-house core-level spectroscopy, i.e. X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, X-ray Adsorption Spectroscopy, etc., and domain knowledge of state-of-the-art computational chemistry tools, in order to come up with a unified mechanistic explanation that is able to connect theory and experiment. 
• Work in a collaborative environment, including both theorists and experimentalists.
• Actively publish in peer-reviewed journals and contribute to scientific research papers and reports.

What is Required:

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or similar fields.
• Track records of applications of electronic structure theory code and software.
• Experiences working closely with experimentalists, and understanding experimental observations.
• Knowledge and skills of data science and data-driven applications in chemistry/chemical engineering.
• Demonstrated ability of coding in Fortran, Shell, or Python with development experiences.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Desired Qualifications:

• Knowledge of chemistry and materials informatics.
• Usage of ASE, Atomate, etc. for efficient pipelines.

Notes:

• This is a full-time 1 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 4 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.
• Salary will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates.
• 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.
• This position is eligible for remote work. Remote workers are defined as individuals that reside in the United States, but 150 miles away from Berkeley Lab. There may be an expectation to intermittently conduct work, attend meetings and training on site at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.  Work schedules are dependent on business needs.

Based on University of California Policy - SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program and U.S Federal Government requirements, Berkeley Lab requires that all members of our community obtain the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as they are eligible. As a condition of employment at Berkeley Lab, all Covered Individuals must Participate in the COVID-19 Vaccination Program by providing proof that vaccination requirements have been met or submitting a request for Exception or Deferral. Visit covid.lbl.gov for more information.

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