Postdoctoral Scholar, Energy Systems

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory; San Francisco (CA); Hybrid; USD 92,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO 24 days per year

Paid holidays

Postdoc Association

Job summary

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar in Energy Systems to develop software tools for design and control of HVAC and data center cooling systems using Python, Modelica, and AI-based methods. You will deploy tools in lab and field settings and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams.

Applicants should have a PhD in a relevant field, strong HVAC knowledge, and hands-on experience with thermo-fluid modeling, simulation, and data analysis.

Qualifications

• PhD in mechanical, architectural, electrical engineering or CS.
• Strong knowledge of HVAC equipment and data center cooling.
• Experience applying AI technologies and data analysis tools.
• Experience with modeling and simulation of thermo-fluid systems.
• Hands-on testing and system design/operation.

Responsibilities

• Develop Python- and Modelica-based software for HVAC/system design.
• Investigate AI, ML, optimization algorithms for control tasks.
• Deploy software at lab and field sites.
• Publish results and collaborate with industry partners.

Skills

Python

Modelica

AI/ML

Thermo-fluid analysis

Data analysis

Communication skills

Education

PhD in mechanical/architectural/electrical engineering or CS

Tools

Modelica

Python

Job description

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring a Postdoctoral Scholar, Energy Systems within the Building and Industrial Energy Systems division. In this role, you will develop, implement, and evaluate software tools for the design and control of thermal energy systems, particularly HVAC equipment, central heating and cooling plants, and/or data center cooling systems. These tools will be developed using Modelica, Python, and AI-based tools. You will also participate in laboratory and/or field demonstrations to validate and evaluate the developed technologies. Successful candidates will have a strong background in thermo-fluid systems and software development, deployment, and distribution. You will work under the guidance of scientists and collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams, including researchers and industry partners within and outside LBNL.

We’re here for the same mission, to bring science solutions to the world. Join our team and YOU will play a supporting role in our goal to address global challenges! Have a high level of impact and work for an organization associated with 17 Nobel Prizes!

Why join Berkeley Lab?

• Retirement savings through the UC Defined Contribution Safe Harbor Plan, with additional voluntary UC retirement savings options available
• 24 days of Personal Time Off (PTO) per fiscal year, plus sick leave and paid holidays
• Eight weeks of Postdoctoral Paid Family Leave for qualifying family and parental needs
• Opportunities to connect, network, and grow through the Berkeley Lab Postdoc Association , including social events, professional development, and scientific exchange
• A collaborative and inclusive culture where you can grow your research career and belong

You will:

• Develop Python- and/or Modelica-based software for design and control of HVAC equipment, central heating and cooling plants and/or data centers.
• Investigate cutting edge algorithms and tools in the fields of AI, machine learning and optimization.
• Deploy, implement and evaluate software tools at laboratory environments and field sites.
• Publish research results in journals, present findings at national and international conferences, and work with industry on testing and deploying the research.

We are looking for:

• Ph.D. degree in mechanical engineering, architectural engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science or related fields.
• Strong knowledge of HVAC equipment, central heating and cooling plants and/or data center cooling systems.
• Demonstrated experience in applying modern AI technologies, computational methods, and data analysis tools
• Strong knowledge of modeling and simulation of thermo-fluid systems
• Hands‑on experience with thermo-fluid systems, including experimental testing, system design, and operation.
• Strong analytical and communications skills, both oral and written, and able to communicate clearly the goals, parameters, objectives and outcomes of their research.

Desired skills/knowledge:

• Knowledge in testing standards of thermal systems
• Capable of working on multiple tasks and projects

For consideration, please apply with the following application materials:

• Cover Letter - Describe your interest in this position and the relevance of your background.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume.

Application date:

Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by December 30, 2026. 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 3 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 $8,266 / mo - $8,921.00 / mo and is expected to start at $8,266 / mo or above. Postdoctoral positions are paid on a step schedule per union contract and salaries will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates.

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:

This position is eligible for a flexible work mode, with onsite or hybrid work being the preferred modes. Hybrid work is a combination of teleworking and performing work on-site at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. Individuals working a hybrid schedule must reside within 150 miles of Berkeley Lab. Work schedules are dependent on business needs. 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 final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer. For additional information, click here .