Postdoctoral Researcher - Ultrafast Science

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring a Postdoctoral Researcher - Ultrafast Science within the Atomic, Molecular and Optical Sciences (AMOS) group in the Chemical Sciences Division. This position will investigate the dynamics of ionized and excited molecules using extreme ultraviolet and X-ray photons and imaging techniques such as COLd Target Recoil Ion Momentum Spectroscopy (COLTRIMS)/Reaction Microscopy (REMI).

The AMOS group addresses fundamental questions in atomic, molecular, and chemical sciences using state-of-the-art tools such as free electron lasers, laboratory-based extreme ultraviolet ultrafast laser sources, synchrotrons, and electron beams, combined with advanced electron, ion, and photon detection techniques. Together with cutting-edge theory, we explore molecular physics and chemistry across a wide range of energies and timescales.

You will:

• Conduct research on energy- and time-resolved electronic and nuclear dynamics of excited molecules through analysis of multi-particle coincidence 3D momentum imaging list-mode data.

• Lead collaborative projects investigating molecular dynamics and correlation effects using synchrotron radiation (e.g., PETRA-III, MAX-IV) and X-ray free electron lasers (e.g., LCLS-II, EuXFEL).

• Participate in tabletop high harmonic generation experiments and 3D momentum spectroscopy using electron-ion coincidence techniques in a dedicated laser laboratory.

• Prepare high-quality manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals and contribute to beamtime proposals and progress reports.

• Present research in group meetings and at national and international conferences.

• Maintain high safety standards in our research labs, accurate data records, and infrastructure supporting group research.

We are looking for:

• Ph.D. in Experimental Chemistry or Physics.

• Experience in COLTRIMS/REMI or velocity map imaging.

• Proficiency in analyzing multidimensional list-mode data sets and simulating COLTRIMS/REMI experiments.

• Experience with complex high-vacuum chambers containing electron and ion spectrometers and EUV optics.

• Experience in data acquisition (e.g., COBOLD, LabVIEW), programming (e.g., Fortran, C++, Matlab, Python), and momentum spectroscopy.

• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative research environment and communicate results clearly.

Desired skills/knowledge:

• Mentor and guide students, interns, and coworkers.

• Support research activities of other team members.

• Keep detailed experimental records and communicate results to the group and PI on a weekly basis.

• Experience with ultrafast laser operation, chirped pulse amplification, pulse shaping and compression, optical parametric amplification, and high harmonic generation.

• Engineering skills in vacuum, optics, electronics, or computing.

• Demonstrated ability to convey results through well-written and concise documentation.

• Strong interpersonal skills to interact with members of a large multidisciplinary research team.

• Well versed in giving presentations about science and technique.

Additional information:

• Application date: Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by March 15, 2026. 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 $69,084 - $82,836 and is expected to start at $69,084 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.

• 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.

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.