Energy Materials Postdoctoral Researcher

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory • Berkeley, CA

17h • $69,084 - $82,836 • Onsite

About The Position

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring an Energy Materials Postdoctoral Researcher within the Materials Sciences division. You will work with dynamic teams in multi-institutional consortia and carry out research activities, focusing on lithium-ion cathode development. The incumbent will carry out research activities such as synthesizing Li-cathode materials, evaluating their electrochemical performance in Li-half cells and full cells, characterizing performance degradation mechanisms, and applying coating(s) and substitution(s) to improve cycling stability. Join our team and play a supporting role in our goal to address global challenges with science solutions and have a high level of impact.

Requirements

• Ph. D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field by the commencement of employment.
• Deep knowledge of solid-state chemistry and rechargeable lithium battery chemistry.
• Strong experience with inorganic synthesis, battery electrode fabrication, cell assembly, testing, and standard electroanalytical techniques.
• Strong experience with coating and substitution of electrode materials.
• Experience with characterization instruments such as XRD, SEM, TGA, XPS.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to design experiments, conduct independent research, and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.
• Strong organizational and record-keeping skills.
• Less than 3 years of paid postdoctoral experience.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in using synchrotron-based characterization techniques is strongly preferred but not essential.

Responsibilities

• Design and synthesize oxide and oxyfluoride cathode materials for rechargeable lithium batteries.
• Apply coating and/or substitution to the cathode and anode (such as graphite) for performance optimization.
• Prepare and test the Li-battery cells (both Li-half cells and full cells).
• Perform advanced diagnostic studies to understand the electrochemical reaction mechanisms and performance degradation modes.
• Perform complex data analysis and interpret experimental results.
• Participate in team discussions and communicate with collaborators and colleagues.
• Assist with writing reports and preparing program presentations.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication.
• Provide assistance to maintain laboratory equipment and instruments.

Benefits

• 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)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree