Battery Cathode Postdoctoral Fellow

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring a Battery Cathode Postdoctoral Fellow within the Energy Technologies and Systems division. In this exciting role, you will work in the Energy Storage and Distributed Resources Division. You will support the research programs in the Electrochemistry Group aiming to develop next-generation batteries for use in electric vehicles. You will work with dynamic teams in multi-organizational consortia and carry out research activities focusing on synthesis, characterization and optimization of advanced cathode materials for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.

We're here for the same mission, to bring science solutions to the world. Join our team and YOU will play a supporting role in our goal to address global challenges! Have a high level of impact and work for an organization associated with 17 Nobel Prizes!

Why join Berkeley Lab?

We invest in our employees by offering a total rewards package you can count on:

• Exceptional health and retirement benefits, including pension or 401K-style plans
• A culture where you'll belong - we are invested in our teams!
• In addition to accruing vacation and sick time, we also have a Winter Holiday Shutdown every year.
• Parental bonding leave (for both mothers and fathers)

You will:

• Design and synthesize oxide and oxyfluoride cathode materials for rechargeable lithium batteries.
• Use electrochemical techniques such as cell cycling tests, cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and spectroelectrochemistry to investigate kinetic and thermodynamic properties of battery materials, phase transformations, and the interfacial phenomena occur between the electrode and electrolyte.
• Perform advanced diagnostic studies to probe key phenomena and reactions occurring during battery operation, particularly the use of electron microscopic and synchrotron-related spectroscopic techniques. Other techniques may include x-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetric and calorimetric analysis, visible-UV, infrared and Raman spectroscopy.
• Perform complex data analysis and interpret experimental results.
• Prepare manuscripts and reports.
• Publish research findings in high-impact peer reviewed technical journals and conferences; and stay current on recent research in the field by reading published literature.
• Make presentations at scientific meetings and seminars.
• 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.

We are looking for:

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Material Sciences, or a closely related field.
• Deep knowledge of solid-state chemistry and rechargeable lithium battery chemistry, particularly knowledge of Li-ion battery cathode chemistry.
• 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.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to design experiments, conduct independent research and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.
• Ability to work as an independent researcher with a high level of scientific judgment and initiative, as well as to collaborate with other researchers in a diverse team environment.
• Strong organizational and record-keeping skills.

Desired skills/knowledge:

• Knowledge and experience with synchrotron-related spectroscopic techniques.
• Knowledge and experience with molten salt synthesis

For consideration, please apply with the following application materials:

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

Additional information:

• Appointment type: 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.
• Salary range: The DRX Project and the new PRISM Project have a critical need for a postdoc with specialized skills not currently available on the team. As we approach upcoming deliverables and milestones, key efforts - such as the synthesis and testing of cathode materials - cannot proceed without this role being filled, risking significant setbacks to the programs. Timely onboarding is essential to maintain schedule and momentum.
• 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…