Postdoctoral Fellow

Lawrence Berkeley National Labs (LBNL) Energy Analysis and Environmental Impacts Division (EAEI) has an opening for a Postdoctoral Fellow to join the team.

• Collaborate with the PI and other researchers to design and set up various RF/microwave-based material characterization and testing systems.
• Build finite element models to investigate material response and thermal propagation under RF/microwave environment and for H2 storage system
• Build models for non-steady state heat/cooling processes and thermal management.
• Self-starter who is driven and capable of navigating ambiguities and uncertainties to drive outcomes.
• Work in a multidisciplinary team environment, including backgrounds in biology, chemistry, earth sciences, statistics, physics, energy technologies, materials science, engineering, and computer science.
• Analyze and summarize data and present findings at internal lab meetings and scientific conferences.
• Publish in peer-reviewed journals and contribute to scientific research papers and reports.

• Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Material Science, or related field.
• Strong knowledge of RF/microwave theory and thermodynamics.
• Hands-on experience with RF/microwave equipment (e.g. VNA, AWG, oscilloscope, signal generator, spectrum analyzer, horn antenna) for high-power applications (up to kW-scale).
• Strong knowledge of finite element modeling tools (e.g. HFSS, COMSOL, CST).
• Prior experience designing and testing RF/microwave cavities, antennas, and impedance matching devices is a plus.
• Proficiency with scientific programming (e.g. Python, Matlab).
• Evidence of ability to publish results in relevant journals.
• An ability to work in an integrated diverse team environment.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Keen interest in solving science and engineering challenges.

• Broader experience designing commercial/industrial-scale RF/microwave systems is a plus.
• Experience in configuring/testing/modifying experimental setup to achieve research goal is a plus.
• Broader experience working with H2 systems is a plus.
• Prior experience developing antennas, phased arrays, and cavities.
• Prior experience working on energy systems, decarbonization, and carbon dioxide removal.
• Keen interest in multi-disciplinary research to influence policy and technology development.

For Consideration, please apply by August 1, 2024 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, 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.
• The monthly salary range for this position is $7,455 / mo – $8,326.00 / mo and is expected to start at $7,455 / mo or above. 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 and/or related research experience.
• 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.
• Work will be primarily performed at: Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.