Postdoctoral Fellow in Ultrafast Quantum Electron Microscopy

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s (LBNL) Molecular Foundry Division has an opening for a Postdoctoral Fellow in Electron Microscopy to work on the cryogenic Quantum Spin-Polarized Low-Energy Electron Microscope (QSPLEEM) at the Imaging Facility. This role focuses on pioneering the development of a laser-pulsed spin-polarized Gallium-Arsenide (GaAs) electron beam source to enable unique spintronic experiments on ultrafast timescales and nanometer resolution. Using a correlated femtosecond laser pulse, you will excite samples for pump-probe spin measurements to conduct research in advanced Quantum Materials relevant to Quantum Instrumentation and Quantum Information Science.

You will also participate in the QSPLEEM user program and engage in various cutting-edge scientific projects on heterogeneous quantum magnetic materials in collaboration with an international network of scientists.  

What You Will Do:

• Contribute to QSPLEEM user projects that focus on pioneering magnetic 2D materials.
• Build an ultrafast spin-polarized electron source by upgrading the existing QSPLEEM CW-laser to a pulsed laser system, 
• Optimize source parameters including energy spread, beam current, and spin polarization, and set up an optical beam path delay system to test the ultrafast PEEM (Photoemission Electron Microscopy) mode.
• Conduct pump-probe measurements on cryo-cooled magnetic samples, performing structural and spin dependent measurements to study phase transitions in real- and momentum-space.
• Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team and contribute to peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

What is Required:

• Ph.D. in experimental physics, materials science and engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field.
• Experience in at least one of the following:
• Electron microscopy (preferred in low-energy electron microscopy)
• Electron optics
• Pulsed-laser systems
• UHV setups
• Surface science
• Proficiency in Python for data evaluation and instrument control is advantageous (but not mandatory)
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Demonstrated track record of publishing in first-rate scientific journals.
• Ability to innovate, troubleshoot, and propose solutions effectively.

This is a unique opportunity to engage in pioneering research with significant potential for career development. You will be part of an internationally recognized team, with resources for publishing in top journals and presenting findings at high-profile conferences.

Notes:

• For full consideration, please apply by December 4th, 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.
• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes. Postdoctoral Fellow positions are paid on a step schedule per union contract, and salaries are 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 has a targeted monthly salary range of $6,823.00 - $7,072.00 and is expected to start at $6,823.00 or above. 
• 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.

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