Career Center

Berkeley Lab's Energy Storage & Distributed Resources (ESDR) Division has an opening for a Battery Cathode Postdoctoral Fellow to join their Electrochemistry Group!

In this role, you will support the research activities in developing next-generation batteries for use in electric and plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles. This position will develop research focusing on synthesis, characterization and optimization of advanced cathode materials for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.

What You Will Do:

• Synthesize conventional and single-crystal samples of new and existing battery cathode materials such as NMCs and Li-and Mn-rich NMCs.
• Perform advanced diagnostic studies to understand key phenomena and processes occurring during battery operation, particularly the use of X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetric and calorimetric analysis, visible-UV, infrared and Raman spectroscopy, as well as synchrotron-related spectroscopic techniques.
• Use electrochemical techniques such as cycling tests, cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and spectroelectrochemistry to investigate kinetic and thermodynamic properties of battery electrode materials, phase transformations, and interfacial phenomena occur between the electrode and electrolyte.
• Perform data analysis and interpret experimental results.
• Prepare manuscripts and reports.
• Make presentations at scientific meetings and seminars.
• Carry out collaborative research with research associates, post-doctoral fellows, visiting scientists and students at LBNL as well as colleagues in other national labs and universities.
• Publish research findings in high-impact peer reviewed technical journals and conferences; stay current on recent research in the field by reading published literature.

What is Required:

• A recent Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Sciences, or closely related field.
• Profound knowledge on solid-state chemistry and rechargeable lithium battery chemistry, particularly knowledge on Li-ion battery cathode chemistry.
• Extensive experience with inorganic synthesis, battery electrode fabrication, cell assembly and testing, standard electroanalytical techniques (CV, chronoamperometry etc.), and a range of characterization instruments such as XRD, SEM, TEM, TGA, DSC, visible-UV, FTIR, Raman, and synchrotron-related spectroscopy.
• Experience in crystal growth techniques using conventional methods (molten salt and hydrothermal) and novel synthetic approaches.
• Broad knowledge in crystallography and electron microscopy.
• Demonstrated ability to design experiments, conduct independent research, and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills including the ability to author technical and/or scientific writing and present work in conference and review meetings.
• Excellent interpersonal skills including the ability to work as an independent researcher and as a member of a diverse research team, collaborating toward goals, solving problems, and developing scientific ideas.

What We Prefer:

• Experience with solid/liquid interface studies is desirable.
• Knowledge and experience with synchrotron-related spectroscopic techniques.

For full consideration, please apply by February 28, 2022 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, exempt from overtime pay (monthly paid), 1 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 4 years of paid postdoctoral experience.
• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes with predetermined postdoctoral step rates dependent on years of experience post-degree.
• 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.
• This position will perform work onsite at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA 94720.

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 13 Nobel prizes. The University of California manages Berkeley Lab for the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science.

The Energy Storage and Distributed Resources Division (ESDR) works on developing advanced batteries and fuel cells for transportation and stationary energy storage, grid-connected technologies for a cleaner, more reliable, resilient, and cost-effective future, and demand-responsive and distributed energy technologies for a dynamic electric grid.

Berkeley Lab's Postdoc Program is committed to providing Postdoctoral Researchers and Visiting scholars with a positive and impactful experience to jump-start their career through premium research and career development, networking opportunities, mentoring programs, and a strong community. For more information, please visit our Berkeley Lab Postdoc Resources site and our Berkeley Lab Postdoc Association site.

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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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