Postdoctoral Researcher - Energy Systems Modeling

Berkeley Lab’s Energy Analysis (EA) Division performs innovative research to achieve competitive, affordable, and reliable energy systems. In this role, you will participate in several multi-disciplinary projects that will develop process models, technical performance benchmarks, and prospective technoeconomic assessments related to critical gas (NH3, H2, He, CO2)  and solids (K, CMM) separations, energy generation and chemical production. This position will interface closely with experimentalists to develop mechanistic and physics-informed models of material-based technologies within integrated system models. Constructing and optimizing models in ASPEN and the application of machine learning for high-throughput scenario modeling based on findings will be a critical aspect of the position.

We’re here for the same mission, to bring science solutions to the world. Join our team and YOU will play a supporting role in our goal to address global challenges! Have a high level of impact and work for an organization associated with 17 Nobel Prizes!

Why join Berkeley Lab?
We invest in our postdoctoral scholars by offering benefits and resources designed to support your well-being, professional growth, and life outside of work:

• Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage

• Retirement savings through the UC Defined Contribution Safe Harbor Plan, with additional voluntary UC retirement savings options available

• 24 days of Personal Time Off (PTO) per fiscal year, plus sick leave and paid holidays

• Eight weeks of Postdoctoral Paid Family Leave for qualifying family and parental needs

• Opportunities to connect, network, and grow through the Berkeley Lab Postdoc Association, including social events, professional development, and scientific exchange

• A collaborative and inclusive culture where you can grow your research career and belong

You will:

• Contribute to techno-economics analysis

• Contribute to data analysis and visualization to evaluate potential impacts of deploying targeted technologies in key end-use applications and sectors.

• Collaborate in a multidisciplinary team environment, including backgrounds in statistics, physics, energy technologies, and machine learning.

• Analyze and summarize data and present findings at internal lab meetings and scientific conferences.

• Publish in peer-reviewed journals, contribute to scientific research papers  reports, and public-facing websites and tools.

• Ensure that results are translated to industry impact.     

• Contribute to quarterly reports and briefings to funding agencies.

Additional Responsibilities as needed:

• Participate in routine Systems and Energy Technology Analysis department meetings.

• Assist with mentoring of interns.

• Contribute to research proposals and grants as needed.

We are looking for:

• Ph.D. in Chemical, Mechanical, or Civil Engineering, or related field.

• Strong programming experience and familiarity with software versioning systems for data analysis, visualization, and management.

• Knowledge of critical mineral or critical gas separations and purification

• Knowledge of ASPEN modeling and physics based cost assessments

• Knowledge of ammonia production, is a plus.

• Knowledge of energy technologies (i.e., hydrogen, thermal energy), is a plus.

• Proven ability to publish results in relevant journals or reports.

• Ability to work in an integrated diverse team environment.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

• Interest in solving science challenges, particularly in energy.

Desired skills/knowledge:

• Experience working on energy system integration.

• Keen interest in multi-disciplinary research to influence technology development.

For consideration, please apply with the following application materials:

• Cover Letter - Describe your interest in this position and the relevance of your background.

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume.

Additional information:

• Application date: Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by Dec 4, 2026. Applications will be accepted until the job posting is removed.

• Appointment type: This is a full-time, 2 years, 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: The monthly salary range for this position is $7,029 / mo - $8,152.00 / mo \and is expected to start at $7,029 / mo or above. 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 and/or related research 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: This position will be performed 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. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here).

• Union Represented: This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.

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.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer. For additional information, click here.