Ultrafast Molecular Spectroscopy Postdoctoral Researcher

The Lawrence Berkeley National Lab's (LBNL) Atomic, Molecular and Optical Sciences (AMOS) group of the Chemical Sciences Division is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to explore the ultrafast electronic and nuclear dynamics of molecules using cutting-edge extreme ultraviolet (XUV) spectroscopy.

The AMOS group seeks to answer fundamental questions in atomic, molecular, and chemical sciences by employing existing and currently emerging tools such as free electron lasers, laboratory-based extreme ultraviolet ultrafast laser sources, synchrotrons, electron beams, which are coupled with advanced electron, ion, and photon detection techniques. Combining these with state-of-the-art theory, we investigate fundamental chemistry and physics in small molecular systems over a broad range of time scales and energies.

This position offers the opportunity to work at the forefront of ultrafast science, leveraging state-of-the-art laser systems, synchrotrons, and free electron lasers to investigate fundamental chemical and physical processes. You will join a collaborative research environment, working alongside leading scientists and contributing to groundbreaking discoveries.

What You Will Do:

• Lead research on the time-resolved electronic and structural dynamics of excited molecules using femtosecond XUV pulses and photoionization particle momentum imaging spectroscopy.
• Manage the operation and maintenance of a dedicated ultrafast laser laboratory, including high-repetition-rate broadband laser systems, tabletop high harmonic generation sources, an XUV beamline, and a photoelectron/ion momentum spectroscopy endstation.
• Develop and optimize state-of-the-art instrumentation, including data acquisition and analysis tools, beamline alignment systems, and ultrafast laser control.
• Collaborate on high-impact research projects utilizing synchrotron radiation and X-ray free electron lasers such as LCLS-II to investigate molecular dynamics and electron correlation effects.
• Prepare and publish high-quality peer-reviewed manuscripts and contribute to beamtime proposals at major user facilities.
• Present your research at national and international conferences and participate in group discussions.
• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to interns, graduate students, and fellow researchers.
• Maintain high safety standards and contribute to the development of advanced data records, documentation, and research infrastructure.

What is Required:

• Ph.D. in Experimental Physics, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Expertise in ultrafast laser systems, broadband ultrashort-pulsed lasers, and tabletop optical systems.
• Hands-on experience in time-resolved photon spectroscopy, ultrafast detection methods, and vacuum technologies.
• Experience operating photon, ion, or electron detectors (e.g., multi-channel plates, high-speed/high-sensitivity cameras).
• Proficiency in data acquisition, real-time analysis, and computational tools such as LabVIEW, MATLAB, Python, or COBOLD.
• Strong background in Ti:sapphire laser systems, chirped pulse amplification, pulse shaping, compression, and high harmonic generation.
• Ability to troubleshoot and maintain ultrafast optical systems and instrumentation.
• Excellent scientific communication skills, both written and oral.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience in reaction microscopy (COLTRIMS) or velocity map imaging.
• Demonstrated ability to design and assemble ultrafast laser apparatus, optical components, and electronic systems.
• Strong track record of mentoring and training students in a collaborative research setting.
• Proven ability to write competitive beamtime proposals and publish in top-tier journals.
• Ability to clearly document and communicate complex technical information.

Notes:

• For full consideration, please apply by March 31, 2025.
• This is a full-time, two-year, postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs.
• The monthly salary range for this position is $5,562.00 - $6670. 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 and/or related research experience.
• 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.
• 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.

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

Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. In support of our rich community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.