Geochemistry Postdoc

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab's (LBNL) Geochemistry Group has an immediate opening for an Experimental Geochemistry Postdoctoral Scholar.

You will collaborate with a world-leading team of researchers to understand the fundamental mechanisms of mineral interfacial chemistry, element and isotope partitioning, crystal growth, dissolution, and phase transformation. The project team uses state-of-the-art computational and experimental tools to investigate chemical and mechanical processes that contribute to the enhanced reactivity of minerals in sedimentary formations. Your role will be to lead the design, implementation, and analysis of aqueous chemostatic mineral-fluid reactions using autonomous and automated reactors in the Living Minerals Laboratory and through a joint appointment in the Department of Earth and Planetary Science at University of California, Berkeley; and to collaborate with our multidisciplinary team of LBL and UC Berkeley Scientists to apply a suite of state-of-the-art techniques including quantum sensing, advanced isotopic methods, scanning probe microscopy, X-ray and electron imaging, scattering or spectroscopy, geochemical modeling, and molecular modeling, to understand and control the fundamental molecular processes that drive mineral reactivity.

You will:

• Design, conduct, and analyze crystal growth experiments.

• Measure the geochemistry and isotopic composition of the solutions and solids

• Work with state-of-the-art analytical facilities including automated chemostats, the advanced light source, and isotope-ratio mass spectrometry and spectroscopy systems

• Work creatively, independently, and productively.

• Work as a member of a multidisciplinary research team.

• Work collaboratively with laboratory technicians.

• Publish peer-reviewed journal articles and present work at scientific conferences.

• Contribute to progress reports and team deliverables.

• Mentor laboratory interns or students, if there is mutual interest.

We are looking for:

• At the time of start: Ph.D. in Earth and Planetary Science, Chemistry, materials science or related field

• Demonstrated ability to perform research that addresses fundamental science questions.

• Demonstrated experience with experimental geochemistry methods, including aqueous reactions and crystal growth

• Comfort working with advanced geochemical instruments

• Excellent written and oral presentation skills.

• Record of timely publications.

The position will remain open until filled. For full consideration, with the following application materials:

• Cover Letter - Describe your interest in this position and the relevance of your background (1 page maximum).

• Curriculum Vitae (CV).

• Names and contact information for three references.

• PDFs of 2 top publications (in prep is OK).

Additional information:

• Application date: Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by 12/31/2025. Applications will be accepted until the job posting is removed.

• Appointment type: This is a full-time, 2 years, 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 years of paid postdoctoral experience. Salary for Postdoctoral positions depends on years of experience post-degree.

• Salary range: The monthly salary range for this position is $6,573 - $8,921 and is expected to start at $6,573 or above. Postdoc 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 and/or related research experience.

• Background check: This position is 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 modality: Work will be primarily performed at: Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here).

• Union Represented:This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich 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, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.