Postdoctoral Scholars

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory • Berkeley, CA

1d • $5,756 - $9,136 • Onsite

About The Position

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. These positions are part of projects focused on measuring low-energy deuterium-deuterium cross sections. The successful candidate(s) will contribute to the development and execution of experiments exploring deuterium fusion within metal hydrides and investigating methods to increase the fusion rate. Working closely with scientists and engineers, the Postdoc(s) will assist in the design, implementation, and utilization of novel and custom instruments to measure fusion products such as neutrons, helium, and protons. The role involves exploring different material combinations, plasmonic structures, and/or other external triggers to enhance the fusion rate. The position includes collaborations with researchers at the University of California, Davis, for partner experiments and interaction with a theory group to deepen the understanding of processes in metal hydrides and apply theoretical findings to new experiments at both UC Davis and LBNL. The overarching mission is to bring science solutions to the world and address global challenges, with the opportunity to work for an institution associated with 17 Nobel Prizes.

Requirements

• 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.
• Less than 3 years of paid postdoctoral experience.

Nice To Haves

• Ability to mentor undergraduate and graduate students and visitors.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Benefits

• Salary for Postdoctoral positions depends on years of experience post-degree.
• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.

What This Job Offers

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