US: Chemist Postdoctoral Fellow

We are currently seeking a Chemist Postdoctoral Fellow to join our Environmental Energy Technologies Division. This position supports the BATT Program (Batteries for Advanced Transportation Technologies) in the area of synthesis and characterization of electrode materials for Li-ion batteries. The person in this role will conduct research to investigate new compounds with interesting properties and evaluate improvements of the performance of well-known candidates through the control of the micro/nanostructure of the materials using different synthetic methodologies. The BATT group is a diverse research group consisting of both theorists and experimentalists aiming to develop the next-generation batteries for use in electric, hybrid-electric, and plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles.

The Chemist Postdoctoral Fellow will:
• Explore new phases with mixed anion compositions showing novel structural types, and synthesize them using solid state methods that involve the use of inert atmosphere, vacuum and sealed tubes.
• Synthesize different new or well-known compounds, using synthetic techniques that allow the tailoring of the micro/nanostructure of the material.
• Characterize the crystal structure of the materials using powder X-ray, neutron and/or electron diffraction and Rietveld refinements, as well as synchrotron radiation-based techniques such as XAS.
• Characterize the micro and nanostructure of the materials using scanning and transmission electron microscopy and specific surface area measurements.
• Evaluate the properties of the materials as electrodes, and investigate the factors that influence their performance (e.g. phase transformations, kinetic and thermodynamic properties, micro/nanostructural features) using electrochemical techniques such as cycling tests, cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and spectroelectrochemistry.
• Analyze and present results in the form of manuscripts and reports.
• Make presentations at scientific meetings and internal seminars.
• Carry out collaborative research with research associates, post-doctoral fellows, visiting scientists and students, with frequent meetings and discussions.
• Collaborate in the development of research proposals and new scientific initiatives, as needed.

Qualifications
• A Ph.D in chemistry, materials science, or a closely related field.
• Strong expertise in solid-state synthesis, both using classical techniques that may involve sealed tubes and novel techniques that enable microstructural tailoring.
• Expertise in crystallography and transmission electron microscopy.
• Knowledge of rechargeable battery chemistry, and familiarity with electroanalytical techniques.
• Exceptionally good written and oral communication skills.
• The ability to work as an independent researcher with a high level of scientific judgment and initiative.
• Ability to participate in collaborative efforts as a member of a diverse research team.

Notes
This is a full-time, one year appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon performance, business needs and continuation of funding.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Thank you for your interest in Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.
Berkeley Lab is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to the development of a diverse workforce.