Battery Cathode Postdoctoral Fellow

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s (LBNL ) Energy Storage & Distributed Resources Division has an opening for a Battery Cathode Postdoctoral Fellow to join the team.

In this exciting role, you will support the research programs in the Electrochemistry Group aiming to develop next-generation batteries for use in electric vehicles. You will carry out research activities focusing on synthesis, characterization and optimization of advanced cathode materials for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.

What You Will Do:

• Synthesize polycrystalline and single-crystal samples of new and existing battery cathode materials including 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, seminars and workshops.
• 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 development in the field by reading published literature.

Additional Responsibilities as needed:

• Participate in research proposal writing.

What is Required:

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Material Sciences, or a closely related field. 
• Deep knowledge of solid-state chemistry and rechargeable lithium battery chemistry, particularly knowledge of 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.  
• Excellent oral and written communication skills. 
• Demonstrated ability to design experiments, conduct independent research and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.
• Ability to work as an independent researcher with a high level of scientific judgment and initiative, as well as to collaborate with other researchers in a diverse team environment. 
• Strong organizational and record-keeping skills.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience with fluorine chemistry is desirable.
• Knowledge and experience with synchrotron-related spectroscopic techniques.  

For Consideration, please apply by May 1, 2024 with the following application materials:

• Cover Letter – Describe your interest in this position and the relevance of your background
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume

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

Notes:

• 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.
• 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 $6,626.00 / 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.

Equal Opportunity and IDEA Information Links:

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