Postdoctoral Scholars

Postdoctoral Fellow

The Accelerator Technology & Applied Physics (ATAP) Division at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) has multiple openings for Postdoctoral Scholars to join the Fusion Science & Ion Beam Technology Program as part of our projects on measuring low-energy deuterium-deuterium cross sections. The successful candidate(s) will contribute to the development and execution of experiments that explore deuterium fusion inside metal hydrides and ways to increase the fusion rate.

Working closely with scientists and engineers within our Program, the Postdoc(s) will assist in the design, implementation, and utilize novel instrumentation and custom instruments to measure fusion products (neutrons, helium, and protons). The postdoc will explore different material combinations, plasmonic structures and/or other external triggers that can enhance the fusion rate.

The position involves collaborations with researchers at the University of California, Davis, where partner experiments will be conducted. Additionally, the Postdoc(s) will interact with a theory group to advance our understanding of the relevant processes involved in metal hydrides and how to relate the theory findings back to new experiments at UC Davis and LBNL.

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!

You will:

• Assist and participate in the design, operation, and analysis of experiments measuring low-energy fusion reactions.
• Assist, prepare and measure samples using nuclear techniques (e.g., solid state detectors for proton counting).
• Assist, prepare and analyze samples in a micro-fabrication facility (e.g., the Molecular Foundry).
• Use electrochemical processes to load metals with deuterium.
• Collaborate on experiments, working closely with LBNL scientists and other project partners, engineers, other postdocs and students. Communicate results through internal reports, internal and external presentations.
• Document and communicate results of work in peer-reviewed journal publications and oral presentations.
• Proactively promote and participate in matters relating to safety and environmentally sensitive work practices.
• Adhere to Environment, Health and Safety (EH&S) policies and attend training classes as required.
• Along with senior project team members, may mentor undergraduate and graduate students and visitors.

We are looking for:

• Recent Ph.D. degree in physics or related field.
• Experience with two or more of the following areas:
• Conducting experiments with ion beams and lasers.
• Nuclear detectors and the appropriate readout electronics.
• Low count rate experiments.
• Electrochemical workflows, loading of metal with deuterium.
• Micro-fabrication or cleanroom experience.
• Ability to work independently.
• Relevant publication record and demonstration of proficient written and oral presentation of scientific results.
• Ability to work effectively in a team that includes engineers, scientific staff, technicians, and students.
• Demonstrate good verbal and written communication skills.

Desired skills/knowledge:

• Ability to mentor undergraduate and graduate students and visitors.

Additional information:

• Application date:
  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 $5,756 - $9,136/month and is expected to start at $7,987/month or above based on a step schedule. 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  other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites.

Equal Employment Opportunity

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