Computational Geological Project Scientist
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring a Computational Geological Project Scientist within the Energy Geosciences division. The Project Scientist position is established to conduct thermal, hydrological, and mechanical modeling in support of the disposal of high-level radioactive waste. The position will support the LBNL Nuclear Energy and Nuclear Waste Program through the interpretation and modeling of laboratory and field tests of bentonite barriers for geological repositories and numerical modeling to evaluate repository design options. The position will develop and apply advanced numerical modeling tools and simulate large-scale tests to support research on the long-term safety and design of geological repositories.
You will:
Conduct advanced numerical modeling to evaluate the performance and long-term safety of geological repositories for high-level radioactive waste.
Develop, modify, and apply numerical modeling tools for coupled thermal, hydrological, and mechanical processes in geological and engineered barrier systems.
Interpret and model laboratory and field experiments, including large-scale tests involving bentonite barriers and other repository components.
Analyze simulation results to evaluate repository design options and advance understanding of coupled processes affecting repository performance.
Present research findings and technical recommendations at program meetings, scientific conferences, and collaborative research forums.
Prepare peer-reviewed journal publications, technical reports, and other scientific documentation describing research methods and findings.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams of scientists and engineers across Berkeley Lab and partner organizations.
Contribute to the development of research proposals and other activities supporting future research opportunities.
We are looking for:
Ph.D. in rock mechanics, fracture mechanics, petroleum engineering, geothermal engineering, reservoir engineering or an equivalent discipline.
Minimum of two years of postdoctoral or equivalent experience.
Programming skills in C/C++, and/or C#, FORTRAN.
Expertise in modeling and analysis of coupled thermal, hydrological, and mechanical (THM) processes in geological media.
Ability to work effectively in a team environment with a multidisciplinary group of scientists.
Good verbal and written communication skills for effective collaboration and for writing peer-reviewed journal publications and technical reports.
Experience developing, modifying, validating, or applying numerical simulation codes to complex subsurface or geomechanical systems.
Desired skills/knowledge:
Experience in AI/ML tools and surrogate model development
Familiarity with the geological disposal of high-level waste
Knowledge of geochemistry in geological disposal of high-level waste
Additional information:
Application date: Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by October 28, 2026. Applications will be accepted until the job posting is removed.
Appointment type: This is a full-time, 1 year, term appointment that may be renewed to a maximum of five years.
Salary range: The expected salary for this position is $106,400 - $123,200, which fits into the full salary of $101,400 - $231,000 depending upon the candidate’s skills, knowledge, and abilities. This includes education, certifications, and years of experience.
Background check: This position is 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 modality: Work will be primarily performed at: Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here).
Union Represented: This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.
We’re here for the same mission, to bring science solutions to the world. Join our team and YOU will play a supporting role in our goal to address global challenges! Have a high level of impact and work for an organization associated with 17 Nobel Prizes!
Why join Berkeley Lab?
We invest in our employees by offering a total rewards package you can count on:
Exceptional health and retirement benefits, including pension or 401K-style plans
A culture where you’ll belong - we are invested in our teams!
In addition to accruing vacation and sick time, we also have a Winter Holiday Shutdown every year.
Parental bonding leave (for both mothers and fathers)
Pet insurance
Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich 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, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer. For additional information, click here.