Postdoctoral Scholar

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s (LBNL) Accelerator Technology and Applied Physics Division has an opening for a Postdoctoral Scholar to join the team.

In this role, you will work at the Accelerator Technology & Applied Physics (ATAP) Division to primarily conduct accelerator magnet superconductor and associated materials R&D and characterization. In this role, work will be performed within the Superconducting Magnet Program (SMP) as a member of a team of physicists, engineers, technologists, and students. This postdoc will perform both metallographic microscopy and non-destructive image analysis using Machine Learning (ML) models and Python script or equivalent, as well as perform room temperature and cryogenic temperature electrical and mechanical measurements.

What You Will Do:

• Perform mechanical characterization measurements and non-destructive data acquisition on superconducting cables fabricated at LBNL.
• Prepare metallographic samples and acquire cross-section images using optical and electron microscopy.
• Assist in the development of Machine Learning (ML) models and run image analysis scripts using ImageJ, FIJI, Python, or equivalent.
• Analyze and correlate results from different characterization techniques.
• Prepare extracted strand samples, including heat treatment, for residual resistance ratio measurements.
• Perform room temperature and cryogenic temperature electrical measurements.
• Assist data analysis and reporting of the electrical measurements.
• Contribute to Identifying and developing new techniques, processes and facility improvements related to cable fabrication and conductor characterization.
• Conduct original research independently and in collaboration in a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Present results at collaboration meetings, seminars, workshops and conferences, and publish in refereed journals.
• Participate in the on-going research and development for other materials characterization projects, including but not limited to the epoxy and insulation materials used in accelerator magnets.

What is Required:

• Ph.D. degree in Physics, Materials Science, or related subjects, within the last 3 years, preferably with substantial experience in applied superconductivity and cryogenics.
• Hands-on experience in preparing metallographic samples for microscopy, operating furnaces for heat treating samples in a retort.
• Working knowledge of operating lab solenoids and preparing superconducting wire or tape samples for critical current measurements.
• Working knowledge of programming in ImageJ / FIJI / Python and VBA in Excel.
• Good verbal and written communication and prioritization/organization skills.
• Ability to work productively, independently and collaboratively as part of a diverse team.

Desired Qualifications:

• Hands-on experience with optical and scanning electron microscopy.
• Hands-on experience with designing and fabricating critical current measurement sample holders.
• Experience in handling cryogens and in operating cryocooler and vacuum systems.
• Knowledge of advanced data analysis and visualization methods, including machine learning and neural network-based algorithms, is highly desirable.

Salary:

The monthly salary range for this position is $5,374-$7,510 and is expected to start at $6,542 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 experience.

Notes:

• 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.
• 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.
• Work will be primarily performed at: Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.

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.

Equal Opportunity and IDEA Information Links: Know your rights, click here for the supplement: Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law and the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision under 41 CFR 60-1.4.