Postdoctoral Scholars

Berkeley Lab; Berkeley (CA); On-site; USD 64,000 - 102,000; Full time

Job summary

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory's ATAP Division seeks Postdoctoral Scholars for the Fusion Science & Ion Beam Technology Program to advance nuclear techniques for mining and rare earth detection.

You will collaborate on Associated Particle Imaging and data fusion with X-ray and pulsed neutron methods, working with UC Berkeley researchers and industry partners. Expect hands-on instrumentation, AI‑driven analysis, and contributions to publications.

Qualifications

• Recent Ph.D. in physics, nuclear engineering, or related field.
• Experience with two or more of the following areas: neutron generators, X-ray sources, detectors, FPGA-based data acquisition, data fusion (AI methods), coding, MCNP/GEANT4 simulations.
• Ability to work independently and in a team; strong publication record and communication skills.
• Collaborative work with engineers, scientists, and students; reporting results via journals and talks.

Responsibilities

• Assist in design, operation, and analysis of instrumentation for active neutron interrogation (A-P Imaging).
• Assist in combining instrumentation like X-ray transmission, pulsed neutrons, and A-P imaging for unknown materials on a conveyor belt.
• Develop data fusion methods (traditional and AI) to integrate measurement techniques.
• Contribute to FPGA-based data acquisition firmware development.
• Collaborate with LBNL scientists, engineers, postdocs, and students; communicate results in reports and presentations.
• Prepare publications and presentations; participate in safety and EH&S training.

Skills

Neutron generators

X-ray sources

Detectors

FPGA data acquisition

Data fusion (AI)

Programming

MCNP/GEANT4 simulations

Education

PhD in physics, nuclear engineering, or related field

Tools

MCNP

GEANT4

Job description

The Accelerator Technology & Applied Physics (ATAP) Division at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) has multiple openings for Postdoctoral Scholars to join the Fusion Science & Ion Beam Technology Program as part of our work on developing nuclear techniques for mining applications and the detection of critical minerals and rare earth elements.

You will contribute to the development of Associated Particle Imaging and data fusion with X-ray technology and pulsed neutron techniques to provide new methods to analyze both borehole measurements and mining ore products.

Working closely with scientists and engineers within our Program, the Postdoc(s) will assist in the design, implementation, and utilization of novel instrumentation and combination of instruments to enhance the characterization of materials for processes involved in critical minerals and rare earth mining through hands-on experiments and AI-driven analysis.

The position involves collaborations with researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, and industry partners.

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!

You Will

• Assist and participate in the design, operation, and analysis of new instrumentation and technologies for active neutron interrogation to be used in boreholes (associated particle imaging)
• Assist and participate in the design, operation, and analysis of combining instrumentation such as X-ray transmission measurements, pulsed neutron sources and associated particle imaging for measuring unknown materials on a conveyor belt.
• Assist in the development of new data fusion methods (traditional and/or AI-based) to combine different measurement techniques
• Assist in the development of a new FPGA-based data acquisition firmware
• Collaborate on experiments, working closely with LBNL scientists, engineers, other postdocs and students. Communicate results through internal reports, internal and external presentations.
• Document and communicate results of work in peer-reviewed journal publications and oral presentations.
• Proactively promote and participate in matters relating to safety and environmentally sensitive work practices.
• Adhere to Environment, Health and Safety (EH&S) policies and attend training classes as required.
• Along with senior project team members, may mentor undergraduate and graduate students and visitors.

We Are Looking For

• Recent Ph.D. degree in physics, nuclear engineering, or related field.
• Experience with two or more of the following areas:
  • Conducting experiments with neutron generators and X-ray sources.
  • Neutron, gamma, and X-ray detectors
  • FPGA-based data acquisition systems
  • Data fusion with traditional and/or AI methods
  • Coding (data analysis and instrumentation & control)
  • MCNP or GEANT4 neutron transport simulations
• Ability to work independently.
• Relevant publication record and demonstration of proficient written and oral presentation of scientific results.
• Ability to work effectively in a team that includes engineers, scientific staff, technicians, and students.
• Demonstrate good verbal and written communication skills.

Desired Skills/knowledge

• Along with senior project team members, may mentor undergraduate and graduate students and visitors.

Additional Information

• Application date: Applications will be accepted until the job posting is removed.
• Appointment type: This is a full-time 2-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 3 years of paid postdoctoral experience. Salary for Postdoctoral positions depends on years of experience post-degree.
• Salary range: This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes. The salary range for this position is $5,756 - $9,136/month and is expected to start at $7,987/month or above based on a step schedule. Postdoctoral 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 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 ).

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 .