Postdoctoral Scholar, Energy Systems
About The Position
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring a Postdoctoral Scholar in the Building and Industrial Energy Systems division. The role focuses on developing, implementing, and evaluating software tools for designing and controlling thermal energy systems, particularly HVAC equipment, central heating and cooling plants, and/or data center cooling systems. The tools will use Modelica, Python, and AI-based technologies. The scholar will participate in laboratory and/or field demonstrations to validate and evaluate developed technologies. The successful candidate will bring a strong background in thermo-fluid systems and software development, deployment, and distribution. Working under scientists’ guidance, the scholar will collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams, including researchers and industry partners inside and outside LBNL. The work includes investigating AI, machine learning, and optimization approaches; deploying and evaluating tools in laboratory and field settings; publishing research; presenting at conferences; and working with industry on testing and deployment. This is a full-time, two-year postdoctoral appointment, with possible renewal based on satisfactory performance, funding availability, and operational needs. Candidates must have fewer than three years of paid postdoctoral experience. The position offers flexible work mode, with onsite or hybrid work preferred. Hybrid employees must reside within 150 miles of Berkeley Lab, and work schedules depend on business needs. The position is union-represented and subject to a background check. Priority consideration is given to applications submitted by December 30, 2026; applications are accepted until the posting is removed.
Requirements
- Ph.D. in mechanical engineering, architectural engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, or a related field.
- Strong knowledge of HVAC equipment, central heating and cooling plants, and/or data center cooling systems.
- Demonstrated experience applying modern AI technologies, computational methods, and data analysis tools.
- Strong knowledge of modeling and simulation of thermo-fluid systems.
- Hands-on experience with thermo-fluid systems, including experimental testing, system design, and operation.
- Strong analytical, oral, and written communication skills, including the ability to clearly communicate research goals, parameters, objectives, and outcomes.
- Fewer than three years of paid postdoctoral experience.
Nice To Haves
- Knowledge of thermal systems testing standards.
- Ability to work on multiple tasks and projects.
Responsibilities
- Develop Python- and/or Modelica-based software for design and control of HVAC equipment, central heating and cooling plants, and/or data centers.
- Investigate algorithms and tools in AI, machine learning, and optimization.
- Deploy, implement, and evaluate software tools in laboratory environments and at field sites.
- Participate in laboratory and/or field demonstrations to validate and evaluate developed technologies.
- Publish research results in journals and present findings at national and international conferences.
- Work with industry on testing and deploying research.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams, including researchers and industry partners within and outside LBNL.
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Retirement savings through the UC Defined Contribution Safe Harbor Plan, with additional voluntary UC retirement savings options available.
- 24 days of Personal Time Off per fiscal year, plus sick leave and paid holidays.
- Eight weeks of Postdoctoral Paid Family Leave for qualifying family and parental needs.
- Berkeley Lab Postdoc Association opportunities for networking, social events, professional development, and scientific exchange.
- Collaborative and inclusive culture.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
