Cryogenic Postdoctoral Scholar

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab's (LBNL) Engineering Division has an opening for a Postdoctoral Scholar to join the team.

In this role, you will assist in the design and development of cryogenic systems and components in support of cutting-edge scientific and engineering projects. You'll contribute across the full engineering lifecycle-from modeling and analysis to fabrication, installation, and experimental testing-using tools like FEA, CFD, and HAZOP to solve complex thermal and fluid challenges. Reporting to the lead cryogenics engineer, you'll work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team. A strong foundation in thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and heat transfer is essential. Experience with helium or hydrogen cryogenic systems, cryocoolers, and their application in superconducting technologies is preferred, as is proficiency with 3D CAD tools like PTC Creo or SolidWorks.

What You Will Do:

• Perform the design, calculation and analysis, procurement, fabrication, assembly, installation, and experimental test of cryogenic systems and/or components.
• Carry out the analysis including but not limited to, thermal, hydraulic, structural, cryogenic safety, cryogenic process flow, process hazards, to solve complex problems using Finite Element Analysis (FEA), and/or Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), and/or HAZOP, and/or other related professional software.
• Document and communicate the results of work in reports, oral presentations, engineering drawings, and engineering documentation, including participation in reviews, meetings, and conferences, and publications in refereed journals.
• Work collaboratively and effectively with a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, technical staff and students.
• Adhere to Environment, Health and Safety (EH&S) policies and attend training classes as required and proactively promote and participate in LBL's safety culture.

What is Required:

• Ph.D. degree in cryogenic engineering, mechanical engineering, or related subjects, within the last 3 years.
• A strong academic background in engineering thermodynamics, fluid dynamics and heat transfer
• Experience in the field of cryogenic engineering, particularly in research and development of cryogenic systems and/or facilities used for superconducting technology (preferred)
• Demonstrated design and development experience in one or more of the following areas (preferred):




• Helium refrigeration or liquefaction systems (4K or below 4K)
• Helium recovery and purification system
• Cryocooler-based cryostats (4K or below 4K, 20K)
• Liquefaction and transfer technology of hydrogen, and its safe application in the areas of SC magnets, nuclear science and physics science.




• Experience in 3D model design using PTC Creo, or Solidworks, or similar CAD software
• Ability to contribute to experimental activities involving cryogenic systems and/or facilities
• Ability to work productively and collaboratively in an integrated diverse multidisciplinary team environment
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects effectively
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Relevant publication record and demonstration of proficient written and oral presentation of scientific results.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience with process hazards analysis using HAZOP,
• Knowledge of ASME Pressure Vessel and Piping Codes, and codes and/or standard for pressure safety devices.
• Knowledge of electromagnetics, structural mechanics, advanced experimental data analysis and visualization methods.
• Knowledge of machining and fabrication methods and technologies.

Required Application Materials:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Cover Letter
• List of Publications

Notes:

• 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.

• The monthly salary range for this position is $7,716 - $9,136 and is expected to start at $7,716 or above. 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.

• 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. Starting May 7, 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.

Berkeley Lab is a University of California employer. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.

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.