Electron Microscopy Postdoctoral Fellow

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s (LBNL) Materials Science Division (MSD) has an opening for a Postdoctoral Fellow

In this role, you will use a cutting-edge liquid helium stage and state-of-the-art four-dimensional scanning transmission electron microscopy (4D-STEM) equipped with an ultra-fast pixelated detector and energy filters to investigate the order competition in superconductors, including cuprates and 2D materials, and develop novel algorithms for image drift correction.

What You Will Do:

• Synthesize cuprate superconductors for imaging.
• Utilize ion milling and Focused Ion Beam (FIB) techniques to prepare ultrathin specimens from bulk cuprates, and employ exfoliation methods for 2D materials.
• Conduct imaging of superconductors using four-dimensional scanning transmission electron microscopy (4D-STEM) at liquid helium and liquid nitrogen temperatures to capture high-resolution structural data.
• Develop novel approaches for correcting drift in 4D-STEM datasets to enhance imaging accuracy and reliability.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at professional conferences. Contribute to the drafting of scientific research papers and the development of patents.
• Collaborate effectively with other researchers associated with the project, contributing to team efforts and interdisciplinary work.

What is Required:

• A recent Ph.D. (within the last 1-2 years) in Materials Science and Engineering, Physics, or Chemical Engineering.
• Demonstrated experience in operating scanning transmission electron microscopes (STEM) and acquiring four-dimensional scanning transmission electron microscopy (4D-STEM) data.
• Skilled in electron microscopy sample preparation techniques including ion milling, focused ion beam (FIB), and exfoliation. 
• Ability to work effectively within a large team and excellent communication skills are essential.
• Experience in preparing scientific manuscripts, reports, and posters for academic and industry presentations.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience with the synthesis of ceramics or preparation of 2D transition-metal dichalcogenide
• Experience with developing deep learning-based approaches for drift correction using MATLAB or Python.

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.
• The monthly salary range for this position is $5,562.00- $6,670.00 and is expected to start at $5,562.00/ 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 

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.

Working at Berkeley Lab has many rewards including a competitive compensation program, excellent health and welfare programs, a retirement program that is second to none, and outstanding development opportunities. To view information about the many rewards that are offered at Berkeley Lab- Click Here.

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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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