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Lawrence Berkeley National Lab's (LBNL) Energy Storage & Distributed Resources Division has an opening for a Chemist Postdoctoral Scholar to join the team.

Thermal energy storage (TES) in buildings can play an important role in improving efficiency and resiliency of the grid by reducing and time shifting the load. Salt hydrates are one class of TES materials that as thermochemical materials (TCMs) that undergo a reversible solid-gas chemical reaction. salt hydrate TCMs (comprising a reactive pair of inorganic salt and water vapor) have higher theoretical energy densities of ~600 kWh/m3 and negligible self-discharge as energy is stored in chemical bonds, making them uniquely suited as compact, stand-alone solutions for daily-seasonal energy storage in buildings. Although promising, the available research shows TCM based storage suffers from instabilities both at the material and reactor level resulting in poor multi-cycling efficiency. In this project we aim to systematically investigate TCMs to overcome these challenges by developing new design rules at both the material and reactor level. Looking for a highly self-motivated and qualified postdoctoral researcher for a position at LBNL to work on a DOE funded project on developing TCMs based energy storage for buildings.

What You Will Do:

• Use characterization techniques including TGA-DSC, DSC, XRD, XPS, and FTIR to characterize the existing and new (salt hydrates) materials.

• Use X-Ray and electron microscopy techniques to investigate the morphology of the salt hydrates and its composites and establish structure-property relationship.

• Perform thermal and mechanical characterization of the salt hydrates and its composites to understand effect of various parameters on its performance. Enhance the thermal and mass transport of the reactor through optimization of material and device design.

• Design and construct lab-scale TCM based reactor and conduct experiments to understand long-term stability of the reactor.

• Analyze experimental data. This includes applying computer analysis and simulation programs to interpret experimental data.

• Collaborate in the development of research proposals and new scientific initiatives.

• Prepare manuscripts, reports and presentations.

• Carry out collaborative research with research associates, post-doctoral fellows, visiting scientists, and students with regular meetings and discussions.

• Adhere with ETA and EH&S safety guidelines and requirements.

What is Required:

• Ph.D. in inorganic chemistry, materials science or chemical engineering with a strong emphasis on materials synthesis, material characterization and device fabrication.

• In depth understanding of structure-property relationship of salt hydrates that possess the required properties to be used for thermal energy storage.

• Must have experience with spectroscopic and electron microscopic techniques.

• Demonstrated skills in laboratory chemistry, such as synthetic chemistry, inorganic chemistry or related fields.

• Hands on experience on using salt hydrates as thermal energy storage materials is highly desirable.

• The ability to work independently with minimal guidance and mentorship with a high level of scientific judgment and initiative.

• Demonstrated ability to participate in collaborative efforts as a member of a diverse research team.

• Possess very good communication skills both verbal and written.

Want to learn more about Berkeley Lab's Culture, Benefits and answers to FAQs? Please visit: https://recruiting.lbl.gov/

For Consideration, please apply 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, 2 years, 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.

• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.

• The monthly salary range for this position is $5,374.00 / mo - $7,316.00 / mo and is expected to start at $6,433.00 / mo 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 and/or related research 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.

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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