Theoretical Postdoctoral Positions in Computational Design and Understanding of Energy Materials
We hire theory postdocs on a rolling basis. Our group combines density functional theory, molecular dynamics, Monte Carlo simulations, and machine learning to accelerate the discovery and optimization of materials for energy storage applications. Our research focuses on next-generation cathodes, solid-state ionic conductors, sodium-ion battery materials, and synthesis science. Exceptional candidates are encouraged to submit their resume to ceder-hr-comp@lbl.gov.
Experimental Postdoctoral Positions in the group of Professor Gerbrand Ceder at UC Berkeley and the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
The group of Professor Gerbrand Ceder at the UC Berkeley Materials Science Department and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory welcomes inquiries from outstanding postdoctoral candidates interested in experimental research in energy storage and autonomous laboratory development. Our experimental efforts in the synthesis and characterization of novel materials are guided, as well as informed, by our computational work, leading to many opportunities for cross-fertilization. More information about our research group can be found at https://ceder.berkeley.edu.
We particularly value candidates who have demonstrated independence in research, strong experimental or computational skills, and the ability to connect their results to the underlying materials science. Candidates should bring depth in a relevant area and an interest in working closely with researchers across theory and experiment.
1. Position #1: Self-driving lab development
Our team has built a self-driving, fully autonomous laboratory, for the synthesis and testing of materials. A-lab integrates automation and AI to rapidly explore synthesis paths for materials, and to optimize properties. The position can focus on automation, AI-driven characterization, and autonomous decision-making, depending on the skills and interest of the candidate. The position is based in Berkeley and offered through the Berkeley Alliance for Research in Singapore (BEARS) in Singapore. It may require occasional travel to Singapore. Candidates should have a PhD in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Chemistry, or a related field. Experience in solid-state chemistry research, automation, and hardware-software integration is highly recommended. For this position, please apply directly through this link: https://sg.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=58c88b9d03912947
2. Position #2: Solid-state batteries
The successful candidates will have experience in some of the following areas:
- Design and development of materials for solid-state batteries
- Assembly of solid-state batteries
- Synthesis and characterization of bulk or nanoscale solid state inorganic materials (e.g. oxides, phosphates),
Electrochemical, spectroscopic, or microscopic methods of materials characterization to understand the relationship between structure and ionic/electronic properties
3. Position #3 : Cathode materials for Na-ion batteries
The successful candidates will have experience in some of the following areas:
- Synthesis of bulk or nanoscale solid state inorganic materials
- Structure characterization of novel materials through powder XRD, in-situ XRD, SEM and TEM.
- Assembly of electrochemical cells and testing.
- We particularly value innovation and a passion to bridge fundamental scientific inquiry and high-impact applications.
4. Position #4: Autonomous lab development
This position will be part of a hybrid theory/experiment team that is combining autonomous experimenting, hands-on device building, ab-initio methods, AI/ML, and data management.
The successful candidates will possess expertise in one of the following areas, but a strong interest to learn many of them:
- Chemical lab automation through robotics and device engineering
- Strong general robotics or device making experience
- Synthesis of inorganic materials, preferably solid state
- Structure characterization of novel materials through powder XRD and in-situ XRD
- Experience with autonomous data acquisition from laboratory equipment
A successful candidate must have a PhD in materials science, mechanical engineering, physics, chemistry, or a related field by the commencement of employment. There are no citizenship requirements. Starting dates are negotiable. We ask those interested to send their curriculum vitae and references to ceder-hr-exp@lbl.gov.