Berkeley Lab's Chemical Sciences Division is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar to focus on the study of gas separation mechanisms in porous materials, using in situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) coupled with first principles calculations. The successful candidate will conduct experiments at the Advanced Light Source (ALS) synchrotron facility using an existing custom-built in situ gas cell, and will also undertake the design, construction and testing of an improved gas cell. In particular, a temperature-controlled sample stage that integrates into a similar cell design is desired. In this role, the Postdoc will work with synthetic chemist collaborators to characterize the interactions of various gas molecules (e.g. H2, N2, CO2, etc.) with binding sites within metal-organic frameworks designed for selective gas binding. Experiments will be interpreted through first principles calculations in collaboration with researchers at the Molecular Foundry at Berkeley Lab, to obtain molecular scale insight into gas binding mechanisms. We are seeking a researcher with experience using synchrotron facilities and developing custom instrumentation.

What You Will Do:

• Sample preparation and collection of XAS data at the ALS.

• Working with Molecular Foundry researchers to conduct first principles calculations to interpret the XAS data.

• Design and construction of new gas cell incorporating temperature control.

• Collaborate closely with synthetic chemists and theorists to ensure proper sample preparation and handling, and to interpret XAS data, respectively.

• Design new and improved instrumentation for in situ XAS of MOF materials as a function of temperature and gas dosing pressure.

• Process and interpret experimental data. Write and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.

• Participate in weekly and monthly meetings and seminars.

What is Required:

• PhD in Chemistry or a related field.

• Experience with synchrotron experimentation and data analysis.

• Experience working with ultra-high vacuum systems (UHV).

• Experience in designing custom instrumentation.

• Knowledge and understanding of X-ray spectroscopy and synchrotron experiments.

• Strong background in X-ray spectroscopy techniques at synchrotron facilities.

• Ability to work independently to develop apparatuses for in situ synchrotron measurements of materials in gas environments.

• Ability to work effectively in a team with people from various backgrounds and research areas.

Notes:

• This is a full-time 1 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 4 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.

• Salary will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates.

• 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.

Equal Employment Opportunity: Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. Berkeley Lab is in compliance with the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision under 41 CFR 60-1.4. Click here to view the poster and supplement: "Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law."

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory encourages applications from women, minorities, veterans, and other underrepresented groups presently considering scientific research careers.