Postdoctoral Researcher, Advanced Electron Microscopy (Low-Temperature TEM)

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring a Postdoctoral Researcher, Advanced Electron Microscopy (Low-Temperature TEM) within the Molecular Foundry division. The postdoctoral scholar will be based at the National Center for Electron Microscopy (NCEM) within the Molecular Foundry. They will conduct advanced electron microscopy studies of quantum and beam-sensitive materials using a liquid helium holder designed for the TEAM I aberration-corrected transmission electron microscope. The project aims to investigate the properties of nanomaterials at very low temperatures through techniques such as TEM, HAADF-STEM, 4D-STEM, and EELS.

The postdoc will develop expertise in low-temperature studies, assist staff and users with the liquid helium holder, and carry out independent research. They are expected to design and perform experiments both independently and in collaboration with staff, students, and users of the Molecular Foundry.

You will:

• Operate the TEAM I microscope and H-bar liquid helium holder.
• Apply advanced structural and analytical electron microscopy techniques, including TEM, STEM, EELS, and 4D-STEM.
• Operate additional TEM instruments within the NCEM facility for sample screening.
• Prepare samples using standard TEM preparation methods.
• Publish original research articles, perspectives, and reviews in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Present research findings at national conferences and regular group meetings.
• Maintain a safe and healthy work environment in compliance with Environment, Health & Safety (EH&S) guidelines at UCB and LBNL.
• Contribute actively to the dynamic research community of the Molecular Foundry.
• Support and promote a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

We are looking for:

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, team-oriented environment.
• Solid understanding of structure–property relationships in materials science.
• Proficient knowledge of electron microscope operation and related techniques.
• Experience with data analysis and interpretation.
• Proven track record of publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Demonstrated experience collaborating within multidisciplinary research teams.

Desired skills/qualifications:

• Experience with data processing using scripted languages such as Python.
• Provide training and mentorship to staff and users, including undergraduate, master’s, and Ph.D. students.
• Ability to work effectively in a diverse, international research environment.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Additional information:

• Application date: Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by 12/15/25. 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 $69,084 - $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.