Energy/Environmental Policy Researcher

The Energy Analysis and Environmental Impacts Division is home to leading scientists who measure and analyze energy use, emissions to the environment, and the technological, market, and policy approaches to improve efficiency and mitigate energy-related impacts. This research informs work spanning basic science and technology development, efficiency standards, and decision-making for the benefit of governments, societies, and the global environment.

In this exciting role, you will work in the Energy Analysis & Environmental Impacts Division by developing datasets and life-cycle assessment models applied to industrial processes, bioenergy, and carbon dioxide removal (CDR). In particular, the selected candidate will be a leading contributor in life-cycle assessment and emissions accounting, geospatial analysis, and detailed engineering analysis of systems that use biomass to produce energy, manufacture products, and achieve atmospheric carbon removal. Working with an interdisciplinary team of researchers, the candidate will conduct research including gathering and processing data (including geospatial data), performing geospatial, cost and emissions analyses, and developing advanced analytical and modeling tools.  You will apply principles and concepts from energy/economic/market/engineering analysis and provide technical support. 

What You Will Do:

• Develop conceptual process designs based on R&D and experimental results from the bench/pilot scale experiments.
• Carry out detailed economic analysis and life-cycle greenhouse gas assessment, identify key cost and emissions drivers for carbon dioxide removal systems.
• Collect and analyze data and prepare results for publication in scientific journals and presentations at conferences.
• May publish results in peer-reviewed journal publications.
• Provide resolutions to problems of moderately complex scope.
• Collaborate with internal personnel and some external contacts.
• Participate in technical and economic feasibility discussions related to new carbon dioxide removal and bioenergy production processes.
• Proactively engage in discussions with other groups at LBNL to identify their TEA, LCA, and geospatial analysis needs.
• Participate in educational and outreach activities.

Additional Responsibilities as needed:

• Keep and maintain accurate and detailed records of all research.
• Contribute to proposal-writing.

What is Required:

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent knowledge) in civil and environmental engineering or chemical engineering / chemistry, or related field, with extensive professional technical experience or additional education related to the position duties, typically minimum 2 years.
• Experience modeling carbon dioxide removal systems that involve biomass as an input.
• Experience in preparing and/or contributing to research proposals is desirable.
• Demonstrated competency in carrying out life-cycle assessment and other systems-level analysis of complex industrial processes.
• Experience with geospatial models and datasets related to biomass, bioenergy, and carbon dioxide removal.
• Ability to model carbon dioxide removal systems.
• Demonstrated publication record.
• Proven capabilities in innovative and applied research in a science-driven research environment.
• Ability to work independently and interact effectively with a broad range of colleagues in a dynamic environment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Must adhere to all Berkeley Lab and EH&S safety policies.

Desired Qualifications:

• Advanced degree in civil and environmental engineering or chemical engineering/chemistry.
• Broad understanding of process operations from the chemical process industry and other related industries (such as power generation and transportation) is a plus.
• Knowledge of supply chain design and operations, optimization methods.

For full consideration, please apply by April 14, 2025. Position will remain open until filled. 

Notes:

• This is a full time, 1 year, term appointment with the possibility of extension or conversion to Career appointment based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs.
• The full salary range for this position is $93,696.00 - $140,568.00. The budgeted salary range that the Lab reasonably expects to pay for this position is $98,918.00 - $109,330.00 Salary offers will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualification and experience, including skills, knowledge, relevant education, and certifications, and also aligned with the internal peer group.
• 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.
• This position is eligible for a flexible work mode, with onsite or hybrid work being the preferred modes, though full-time telework or remote work modes may be considered. Hybrid work is a combination of teleworking and performing work on-site at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. Individuals working a hybrid schedule must reside within 150 miles of Berkeley Lab. Work schedules are dependent on business needs.

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 and Affirmative Action Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, inclusion, 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, or protected veteran status.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer