Job Abstract

The Advanced Light Source (ALS) Division at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) is seeking a Nanoprobe Development Postdoctoral researcher to develop a tender x-ray fluorescence nanoprobe microscope. Working within the Microscopy Program in the Photon Science Operations group, this researcher will collaborate on the design, implementation, commissioning and initial scientific use of a new scanning microscope to be installed at an existing microscopy beamline. This work is part of an extensive program of research and development in preparation for the major upgrade to the ALS accelerator called ALS-U.

The Advanced Light Source is a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national scientific user facility whose excellent scientific reputation, expert staff, and capabilities in the soft x-ray, hard X-ray, and infrared regimes attract over 1,500 academic and industrial users each year in disciplines spanning physical, chemical, materials, biological, energy, and Earth sciences. It is one of five Berkeley Lab user facilities that serve a combined 11,000 users annually. The co-location of these user facilities – including the Molecular Foundry Nanoscale Science Research Center and the NERSC scientific computing center, as well as Berkeley Lab's outstanding programs in materials and chemical sciences, among others – offers a prime environment for collaborative science. The ALS has been a global leader in soft X-ray science for more than two decades and is currently undergoing a large-scale upgrade (ALS-U) that will endow the facility with state-of-the-art X-ray capabilities. It's an exciting time to join our growing team!

What You Will Do:

• Collaborate on the design, implementation and commissioning of a tender x-ray fluorescence nanoprobe instrument.
• Perform tender x-ray microscopy experiments using the new and existing instruments.
• Collaborate with other researchers, both internal and external to Berkeley Lab.
• Publish results in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Present work at conferences and internal group meetings.
• Work in a manner consistent with ALS core values.

What is Required:

• PhD in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or equivalent.
• Experience with scanning microscopy instrumentation.
• Understanding of image formation, analysis and interpretation.
• Ability to safely perform independent hands-on work in an experimental setting.
• Proven track record in disseminating research at conferences and in publications.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience with x-ray microscopy, fluorescence and or absorption spectroscopy.
• Experience with current problems in environmental science.
• Working knowledge of high vacuum systems and practices.

Notes:

• For full consideration, please apply by July 16, 2024.
• 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. Postdoctoral Fellow positions are paid on a step schedule per union contract and salaries are predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates. Each step represents one full year of completed post-Ph.D. postdoctoral and/or related research experience. This position has a targeted monthly salary range of $7,455-$8,326 and is expected to start at $7,455 or above.
• 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.

Learn About Us:

Berkeley Lab (LBNL) addresses the world’s most urgent scientific challenges by advancing sustainable energy, protecting human health, creating new materials, and revealing the origin and fate of the universe. Founded in 1931, Berkeley Lab’s scientific expertise has been recognized with 16 Nobel prizes. The University of California manages Berkeley Lab for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science.

The core values of the ALS reflect a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We seek candidates who will support a culture in which each member of the community feels welcomed and valued. An ongoing commitment to recruiting and retaining a vibrant, diverse, and talented workforce is paramount to promoting a strong and successful lab community. For more information refer to the LBNL core values and the ALS mission statement and core values.

Working at Berkeley Lab has many rewards including a competitive compensation program, excellent health and welfare programs, a retirement program that is second to none, and outstanding development opportunities. To view information about the many rewards that are offered at Berkeley Lab- Click Here.

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.