Postdoc — AI-Enhanced Soft X-ray Spectroscopy for Microelectronics

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s (LBNL) Molecular Foundry Division has an opening for a Postdoc — AI-Enhanced Soft X-ray Spectroscopy for Microelectronics. 

This position will lead soft x-ray spectroscopy and scattering studies on quantum materials and complex oxides, with an emphasis on microelectronics applications. In addition to experimental work, the role includes applying machine-learning and AI-based approaches for data analysis and predictive modeling. The fellow will join a small, world-class, multi-institutional team advancing microelectronics research through AI-enhanced methodologies.

You will:

• Perform soft X-ray absorption spectroscopy and scattering measurements to characterize multiferroics and complex oxide with a focus on microelectronics application. 
• Develop toolkits using Python or Matlab to analyze experimental data.
• Apply modern methods of machine learning towards predictive data analysis. 
• Collaborate with other research teams and scientists.
• Publish original research in peer-reviewed journals and contribute to collaborative publications and contribute to writing grants and proposals.
• Present research through talks and posters at conferences, workshops, and at regular group meetings.
• Contribute positively to the active research culture.
• Uphold a culture of safety and promote stewardship values of the laboratory.

We are looking for:

• PhD in Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry or equivalent.
• Ability to write codes to reduce and analyze data. 
• Experience in synchrotron-based x-ray science.
• Ability to perform independent hands-on work in an experimental endstation. 

Desired skills/knowledge:

• Experience of X-ray Magnetic Circular Dichroism (XMCD), X-ray imaging or resonant magnetic scattering.
• Demonstrated ML experience (e.g., dimensionality reduction, spectral unmixing, Bayesian inference, or physics-informed ML) applied to spectroscopy/imaging datasets.
• Experience with thin film growth and characterization.
• Experience with MOKE and/or transport measurements.
• Working knowledge of high vacuum practices. 

Additional information:

• Application date: Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by December 19,2025. 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.