Materials Science Cryo and Computational Electron Microscopy Postdoctoral Scholar

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring a Materials Science Cryo and Computational Electron Microscopy Postdoctoral Scholar within the Molecular Foundry division. This position will be based at the National Center for Electron Microscopy (NCEM) facility within the Molecular Foundry, conducting electron microscopy studies of beam-sensitive, soft matter, and quantum materials using cryo-EM techniques. The project focuses on investigating nanomaterials through TEM, STEM, 4D-STEM, ptychography, EDS, and EELS at low temperatures. A significant component of the work involves applying data science to automate experiments and analyze correlative, multidimensional datasets, including live at the microscope. Experiments will be carried out on instruments across NCEM, with particular emphasis on the tools in the new cryoEPIC facility. Supervised by Stephanie Ribet, the postdoc will develop and execute experiments both independently and in collaboration with staff, students, and Molecular Foundry users.

You will: 

• Perform low dose, cryo electron microscopy experiments on materials science samples using a brand-new JEOL cryo-STEM, cryo-TEM, and cryo-FIB.
• Utilize structural and analytical electron microscopy techniques such as TEM, STEM, 4D-STEM, ptychography, EDS, and EELS.
• Develop open-source code for automation of experiments and analysis of multidimensional datasets. 
• Prepare samples using typical cryo and room temperature TEM sample preparation techniques.
• Publish original research work, perspectives and review articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Present work at group meetings and scientific conferences. 
• Work in a safe and healthy manner consistent with Environment, Health & Safety guidelines at LBNL.
• Contribute positively to the active research culture of the Molecular Foundry.

We are looking for:

• PhD in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Good understanding of the operation of transmission electron microscopes, including at cryogenic conditions and with beam-sensitive materials.
• Experience with data analysis in python.
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Excellent communication skills and experience working in a team environment with multidisciplinary groups.

Desired skills/knowledge:

• Ability to provide training and guidance to other staff members including undergraduate, Master, and PhD level students.
• Capable of working in a diverse environment with scientists from all over the world.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.

Required Application Materials:

• CV
• Cover Letter (1 page)
• Publication List

Additional information:

• Application date: Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by January 30, 2026. Applications will be accepted until the job posting is removed.
• Appointment type: 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.
• Salary range: This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes. The salary range for this position is $84,336 - $94,020. 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 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).

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.

Berkeley Lab is a University of California employer. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.

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.