Postdoctoral Researcher - Nanofabrication & Nanoscale Science

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab's (LBNL) Molecular Foundry Division has an opening for a Postdoctoral Fellow to join the Nanofabrication Facility. This position is part of the Microelectronics Energy Efficiency Research Center for Advanced Technologies (MEERCAT), a prestigious Department of Energy (DOE)-funded initiative. As part of this multidisciplinary research collaboration, you will lead investigations into nanopatterning artificial superlattices on III-V semiconductors using block copolymer lithography. Your work will contribute to the advancement of next-generation microelectronics through innovative fabrication and characterization techniques.

This research will take place in state-of-the-art cleanroom facilities at the Molecular Foundry, leveraging world-class nanoscale fabrication tools. You will also utilize advanced characterization methods, including Berkeley Lab's nano-ARPES (Angle Resolved Photoelectron Spectroscopy), and collaborate closely with scientists across the five DOE Nanoscale Science Research Centers (NSRCs). This is an outstanding opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge discoveries that impact the future of microelectronics and nanoscience.

What You Will Do:

• Develop and optimize self-assembly and directed self-assembly protocols on III-V multilayers.
• Investigate the relationship between pattern geometry and density of states using nano-ARPES to define design rules for high-performance superlattices.
• Design and implement high-fidelity pattern transfer techniques to minimize etch damage during fabrication.
• Utilize SEM, AFM, and image processing tools for nanoscale characterization.
• Conduct cleanroom-based nanofabrication involving RIE, ALD, and PECVD processing.
• Collaborate with research teams across institutions and contribute to a highly interdisciplinary scientific environment.
• Publish research in high-impact peer-reviewed journals and present findings at national and international conferences.
• Contribute to the vibrant research culture at LBNL's Molecular Foundry through mentorship, discussions, and scientific exchanges.

Additional Responsibilities as needed:

• Characterization techniques: TEM, Ellipsometry, XPS.
• Provide training and guidance to other staff members including undergraduate, Master's and PhD level students.

What is Required:

• Ph.D. in Physics, Materials Science & Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Soft-Matter Physics, or a related field.
• Strong commitment to safety culture in a research environment.
• Proven track record of publications in high-impact scientific journals.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary setting.

Desired Qualifications:

• Hands-on experience with cleanroom nanofabrication of semiconductor surfaces.
• Expertise in block copolymer self-assembly and lithographic patterning techniques.
• Experience with photolithography, e-beam lithography, ICP-RIE, ALD, PECVD, SEM, AFM.
• Knowledge of programming languages, image processing, or computational modeling.
• Background in synchrotron-based x-ray characterization or nano-ARPES.
• Familiarity with materials characterization techniques such as TEM, XPS, Ellipsometry, NMR, or HPLC.

Notes:

• This is a full time, exempt from overtime pay (monthly paid), 2 year (benefits eligible), Postdoctoral Fellow 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.
• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes. Postdoctoral Fellow positions are paid on a step schedule per union contract and salaries are predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates. Each step represents one full year of completed post-Ph.D. postdoctoral and/or related research experience. This position has a targeted monthly salary range of $6,823.00 - $7,607.00 and is expected to start at $6,823.00 or above.

• 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.