Computational Geological Project Scientist

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring a Computational Geological Project Scientist within the Energy Geosciences division. The Project Scientist position is established to conduct thermal, hydrological, and mechanical modeling in support of the disposal of high-level radioactive waste. The position will support the LBNL Nuclear Energy and Nuclear Waste Program through the interpretation and modeling of laboratory and field tests of bentonite barriers for geological repositories and numerical modeling to evaluate repository design options.

The position will develop and apply advanced numerical modeling tools and simulate large-scale tests to support research on the long-term safety and design of geological repositories.

You will:

Conduct advanced numerical modeling to evaluate the performance and long-term safety of geological repositories for high-level radioactive waste.

Develop, modify, and apply numerical modeling tools for coupled thermal, hydrological, and mechanical processes in geological and engineered barrier systems.

Interpret and model laboratory and field experiments, including large-scale tests involving bentonite barriers and other repository components.

Analyze simulation results to evaluate repository design options and advance understanding of coupled processes affecting repository performance.

Present research findings and technical recommendations at program meetings, scientific conferences, and collaborative research forums.

Prepare peer-reviewed journal publications, technical reports, and other scientific documentation describing research methods and findings.

Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams of scientists and engineers across Berkeley Lab and partner organizations.

Contribute to the development of research proposals and other activities supporting future research opportunities.

We are looking for:

Ph.D. in rock mechanics, fracture mechanics, petroleum engineering, geothermal engineering, reservoir engineering or an equivalent discipline.

Minimum of two years of postdoctoral or equivalent experience.

Programming skills in C/C++, and/or C#, FORTRAN.

Expertise in modeling and analysis of coupled thermal, hydrological, and mechanical (THM) processes in geological media.

Ability to work effectively in a team environment with a multidisciplinary group of scientists.

Good verbal and written communication skills for effective collaboration and for writing peer-reviewed journal publications and technical reports.

Experience developing, modifying, validating, or applying numerical simulation codes to complex subsurface or geomechanical systems.

Desired skills/knowledge:

Experience in AI/ML tools and surrogate model development

Familiarity with the geological disposal of high-level waste

Knowledge of geochemistry in geological disposal of high-level waste

Additional information:

Appointment type: This is a full-time, 1 year, term appointment that may be renewed to a maximum of five years.

Salary range: The expected salary for this position is $106,400 - $123,200, which fits into the full salary of $101,400 - $231,000 depending upon the candidate’s skills, knowledge, and abilities. This includes education, certifications, and years of 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  other acceptable form of identification is required to access…