Mass Spectrometry Postdoctoral Fellow (Ambient Infrared Laser Ablation)

Berkeley Lab’s (LBNL) Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging Division (MBIB) has an opening for a Mass Spectrometry Postdoctoral Fellow to join the Berkeley Synchrotron Infrared Structural Biology (BSISB) imaging program.

BSISB is a national infrared imaging program that develops and offers specialized analytical capabilities that make use of the high-intensity (bright) synchrotron radiation produced by the Advanced Light Source (ALS) to study organisms and biomaterials at spatial dimensions in the range of micrometers to nanometers.

In this role, you will be a hands-on experimental researcher working with a multi-disciplinary team to apply cutting-edge analytical, engineering, and computational concepts to drive the development and optimization of an integrated autonomous chemical imaging system. You will have the opportunity to develop new expertise and gain recognition within the chemical analysis and imaging community.

This position has an anticipated start date of December 1, 2024.

What You Will Do:

• Continue the ongoing innovative technology research and development in the field of Ambient Infrared Laser Ablation (AIRLAB) mass spectrometry of biomaterials.
• Continue to develop and advance AIRLAB mass spectrometry, which include research studies of fundamental mechanisms of AIRLAB and the transfer of the desorbed/ablated biomaterials as they relate to chemical analysis.
• Continue to advance AIRLAB mass spectrometry and its integration with autonomous infrared spectral microscopy.
• Design and carry out work plans for multiple tasks, collecting and analyzing data, using findings to improve system performance, and suggest follow-on work. Develop resolution to technical problems.
• Design experiments and modify or combine laser, mass spectrometer or optical spectrometer components as needed.
• Apply computer analysis and simulation programs to interpret experimental data and characterize composition of desorbed/ablated sample biomaterials.
• Carry out collaborative research with scientists, research associates, other postdoctoral fellows, and students, and interact with internal and external personnel.
• Provide technical support, training and mentoring to students.
• Contribute to proposal and manuscript writing and speak at scientific meetings and program reviews.

What is Required:

• A recent Ph.D. (within the last 1-3 years) in Experimental Chemistry, Physics, or a closely related field.
• Experience in mass spectrometry for organic molecules, biomolecule analysis, and quantification.
• Experience with high performance mass spectrometry, tandem mass spectrometry, and mass spectrometry spectral interpretation.
• Experience in chemometrics and spectroscopic data analysis.
• Experience with optics modeling and application to pulsed laser experimental system design.
• Experience in sample preparation, complex spectroscopic data collection, analysis, and visualization.
• Expertise in the field of elemental organic molecules, isotopic analysis, and morphological characterization.
• Strong oral and written communication skills including the ability to efficiently organize technical information for publication and presentation.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills including experience collaborating with a diverse interdisciplinary research team.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience in laser desorption/ionization ablation and laser optics.
• Experience in mass spectrometry chemical imaging and hydrodynamic modeling.

Notes:

• For first consideration, please apply with a curriculum vitae (CV) or resume by October 11, 2024.
• This is a full time, exempt from overtime pay (monthly paid), 2 year (benefits eligible), Postdoctoral Fellow 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.
• The monthly salary range for this position is $5,643 - $6,766 and is expected to start at $5,643 or above. Postdoctoral Fellow positions are represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes and are paid on a step schedule per union contract. 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 is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.
• 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.
• This position will be performed onsite at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA 94720.

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.

Berkeley Lab’s Postdoc Program is committed to providing Postdoctoral Researchers and Visiting scholars with a positive and impactful experience to jump-start their career through premium research and career development, networking opportunities, mentoring programs, and a strong community.  For more information, please visit our Berkeley Lab Postdoc Resources site and our Berkeley Lab Postdoc Association site.

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. 

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