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Chemist Postdoctoral Fellow (Electrochemistry Group)

Berkeley Lab’s Energy Storage & Distributed Resources (ESDR) Division has an opening for a Chemist Postdoctoral Fellow to join their Electrochemistry Group!

In this role, you will support the research activities in developing the next-generation batteries for use in electric and hybrid-electric vehicles. This position will develop research focusing on ceramic solid electrolyte synthesis and processing, advanced characterization, fabrication and electrochemical testing of cell components for rechargeable all-solid-state lithium-metal batteries.

What You Will Do:
  • Synthesize ceramic and glassy solid-state electrolytes such as LLZO and halides.
  • Prepare dense ceramic layers and fabricate cell components with controlled interfaces.
  • Use electrochemical techniques (cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, diffusivity measurements, spectroelectrochemistry etc.) to investigate kinetic and thermodynamic properties of battery materials and interfacial process occurring between the electrode and solid electrolyte.
  • Perform advanced diagnostic studies to probe ion transport and reaction mechanisms in lithium batteries. Techniques may include scanning and transmission electron microscopy, synchrotron X-ray spectroscopy and microscopy, thermogravimetric and calorimetric analysis, infrared and Raman spectroscopy. 
  • Perform complex data analysis and interpret experimental results.
  • Prepare manuscripts and reports.
  • Publish research findings in high-impact peer reviewed journals.
  • Make presentations at scientific meetings and seminars.
  • Review literature and stay current on research in the field.
  • Carry out collaborative research with research associates, post-doctoral scholars, visiting scientists and students at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) as well as colleagues in other national labs and universities.
  • Provide assistance to maintain laboratory equipment and instruments.

What is Required:
  • A recent Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Sciences, or closely related field.
  • Profound knowledge of solid-state chemistry and rechargeable lithium-ion battery field.
  • Experience with solid-state battery research and related synthesis and analytical techniques, particularly experience on synthesis and processing of ceramic and glassy solid-state electrolytes.
  • Extensive experience with inorganic synthesis, battery electrode fabrication, cell assembly and testing, standard electroanalytical techniques (CV, chronoamperometry etc.), and a range of characterization instruments such as XRD, SEM, TEM, TGA, DSC, visible-UV, FTIR, Raman, and synchrotron-related spectroscopy.
  • Demonstrated ability to design experiments, conduct independent research, and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills including the ability to author technical and/or scientific writing and present work in conference and review meetings.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills including the ability to work as an independent researcher and as a member of a diverse research team, collaborating toward goals, solving problems, and developing scientific ideas.

What We Prefer:
  • Knowledge of ceramics sintering/processing techniques and related equipment.

For full consideration, please apply by February 28, 2022 with the following application materials:

  • Cover Letter - Describe your interest in this position and the relevance of your background.
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume.

Notes:
  • This is a full time, exempt from overtime pay (monthly paid), 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. 
  • This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes with predetermined postdoctoral step rates dependent on years of experience post-degree.
  • 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 of Full Vaccination or submitting a request for Exception or Deferral. Visit covid.lbl.gov for more information.
  • 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 will perform work onsite at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA 94720.

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 13 Nobel prizes. The University of California manages Berkeley Lab for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science.

The Energy Storage and Distributed Resources Division (ESDR) works on developing advanced batteries and fuel cells for transportation and stationary energy storage, grid-connected technologies for a cleaner, more reliable, resilient, and cost-effective future, and demand-responsive and distributed energy technologies for a dynamic electric grid.

Berkeley Lab’s Postdoc Program is committed to providing Postdoctoral Researchers and Visiting scholars with a positive and impactful experience to jump-start their career through premium research and career development, networking opportunities, mentoring programs, and a strong community. For more information, please visit our Berkeley Lab Postdoc Resources site and our Berkeley Lab Postdoc Association site.

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.