Postdoctoral Researcher in Optically-Coupled Electron Microscopy

The Molecular Foundry at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) has an opening for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Optically-Coupled Electron Microscopy to join our team at the National Center for Electron Microscopy (NCEM). 

In this role, you will advance our understanding of light-induced heterogeneities in photocatalyst nanomaterials for optimized design and control of photocatalysts. This position leverages new electron microscopy instrumentation at NCEM that enables optical illumination and spectroscopy within an aberration-corrected and monochromated scanning transmission electron microscope with high spatial and spectral resolution.

Working at the cutting edge of in situ TEM, you will develop techniques and workflows that enable atomic- to nano-scale multimodal electron characterization under in situ optical illumination conditions. These new workflows will be applied to characterize the nanophotonic response and behavior of photocatalyst architectures.

As a multidisciplinary research center at the forefront of nanoscale science, the Molecular Foundry provides state-of-the-art nanoscience expertise and instrumentation to a diverse international community, drawing users from academia, national labs, and industry. NCEM specializes in advancing electron microscopy techniques, algorithms, and instruments while simultaneously training scientists in the theory and application of electron characterization. The postdoctoral researcher will be mentored by Katherine Sytwu, with access to additional support and enrichment through NCEM and the Molecular Foundry.

This position has an anticipated start date of April 1st, 2025.

What You Will Do:

• Characterize semiconductor and plasmonic nanomaterials using optically-coupled transmission electron microscopy and spectroscopy.
• Develop techniques and protocols for multimodal electron microscopy and spectroscopy acquisition under optical illumination.
• Analyze scientific data with state-of-the-art data analysis methods.
• Be a leader and role model in lab safety, particularly with laser and cryogen safety.
• Publish and present research results in peer-reviewed scientific journals and at national conferences.
• Contribute towards an inclusive, supportive, and collaborative work environment.

What is Required:

• Recent PhD (within last 3 years) in materials science, physics, chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated experience as an independent operator of a transmission electron microscope.
• Experience in experimental nanomaterials characterization.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively work and communicate in an interdisciplinary environment.
• Enthusiasm for learning new areas of research and for open collaboration.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience with either 1) advanced scanning transmission electron microscopy analytical techniques (i.e. electron energy loss spectroscopy, cathodoluminescence, 4D-STEM, etc.) or 2) optical spectroscopy and/or laser-based optical setups.
• Background knowledge in nanophotonic, semiconductor, or optoelectronic materials.
• Experience with programming languages (i.e. Python, MatLab, C++, R) for scientific data analysis.
• Experience with writing software for hardware control.

Required Application Materials:

• CV
• 1-page cover letter describing your research interests and background
• Contact information for two references (References will not be contacted until told)

Notes:

• For full consideration, please apply by October 18th, 2024.
• 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 $6,823 - $7,606 and is expected to start at $6,823 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 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.

Learn About Us:

Berkeley Lab (LBNL) addresses the world’s most urgent scientific challenges by advancing sustainable energy, protecting human health, creating new materials, and revealing the origin and fate of the universe. Founded in 1931, Berkeley Lab’s scientific expertise has been recognized with 16 Nobel prizes. The University of California manages Berkeley Lab for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science.

Working at Berkeley Lab has many rewards including a competitive compensation program, excellent health and welfare programs, a retirement program that is second to none, and outstanding development opportunities. To view information about the many rewards that are offered at Berkeley Lab- Click Here.

Berkeley Lab is committed to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accountability (IDEA) and strives to continue building community with these shared values and commitments.

Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We heartily welcome applications from women, minorities, veterans, and all who would contribute to the Lab’s mission of leading scientific discovery, inclusion, and professionalism. In support of our diverse global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. 

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