Nanofabrication and X-Ray Optics Research Scientist

Nanofabrication and X-Ray Optics Research Scientist

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s (LBNL) Advanced Light Source (ALS) Division has an opening for a Research Scientist with expertise in nanofabrication and x-ray diffractive optics. This is your opportunity to play a pivotal role in cutting-edge research at one of the world’s premier user facilities.

As part of the ALS Photon Science Development Group and in collaboration with the Center for X-Ray Optics (CXRO), you will design, develop, test, and use advanced x-ray optical elements and experimental systems that power groundbreaking scientific discoveries.

The Advanced Light Source is a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national scientific user facility whose excellent scientific reputation, expert staff, and capabilities in the soft x-ray, hard x-ray, and infrared regimes attract over 1,500 academic and industrial users each year in disciplines spanning physical, chemical, materials, biological, energy, and Earth sciences. It is one of five Berkeley Lab user facilities that serve a combined 11,000 users annually. The co-location of these user facilities offers a prime environment for collaborative science. The ALS has been a global leader in soft x-ray science for more than two decades and is currently undergoing a large-scale upgrade (ALS-U) that will endow the facility with state-of-the-art, high-coherent-flux x-ray capabilities. It's an exciting time to join our growing team!

The candidate will be placed at a level commensurate with experience, knowledge, and skills.

What You Will Do:

Level 1:

• Conduct research in nanopatterning and nanofabrication for high-resolution, high-efficiency x-ray optics.
• Design, model, and simulate x-ray optical elements tailored to experimental needs.
• Apply advanced lithographic fabrication techniques including e-beam lithography.
• Utilize advanced characterization tools, including SEM, AFM, TEM, and x-ray at-wavelength x-ray methods.
• Lead or contribute to upgrades of experimental systems showcasing ALS capabilities.
• Share research findings through publications and presentations at conferences.
• Follow safe laboratory practices and protocols, ensuring compliance with Laboratory, Division, and Program safety policies.
• Uphold LBNL’s values of stewardship and IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accountability) while promoting integrity and ethical practices in all work.

In addition to Level 1 above, at Level 2:

• May initiate and drive independent research projects to push technical boundaries.
• Build and maintain professional networks and foster collaborations with internal and external partners.
• Supervise and mentor technical staff and junior researchers.

What is Required:

Level 1:

• PhD or equivalent in years of related work experience in relevant scientific or engineering disciplines.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience with nanofabrication techniques and characterization tools.
• Knowledge of optics, diffraction, optical simulation, and light interactions with matter. Ability to model optical elements from optical physics and principles.
• Ability to perform calculations and data analysis in a well-known programming language like Python, Matlab, etc.
• Ability to apply various lithography techniques, working safely in a cleanroom environment.
• Working knowledge of characterization tools for nanofabrication including SEM, AFM, and/or TEM.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with a multidisciplinary team of physicists, engineers, technical support staff, and collaborating scientists from all backgrounds.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• A publishing record in the field of electron-beam lithography and/or nanofabrication (e.g., atomic layer deposition, electroplating, plasma etching), optics, optical techniques, or characterization techniques.

In addition to Level 1 above, at Level 2:

• Substantial professional experience in relevant scientific or engineering disciplines. Demonstrated ability to carry out independent, creative research within an established framework.
• A strong publication and/or presentation track record in the field of x-ray nano-diffractive optics. This may include x-ray optical techniques, x-ray experimental techniques, or nanofabrication of x-ray optics.
• Expertise modeling x-ray interactions with matter, or using optical modeling software suitable for x-ray optical systems. Expertise with modeling custom optical elements, in particular diffractive elements.
• Expertise applying lithography techniques for nanofabrication. Familiarity with state-of-the-art e-beam lithography instrumentation.
• Expertise with characterization tools for nanofabrication, especially SEM, AFM, and/or TEM.
• Ability to supervise staff when required. Ability to lead small projects involving fellow scientists, engineers, technical staff, and junior scientists. Ability to work independently and creatively.

Desired Qualifications:

• Working knowledge of the properties of x-ray light sources, beamlines, beamline optics, and/or x-ray experimental techniques will be helpful.
• Experience in the design and implementation, commissioning, testing, and use of x-ray optical elements, beamlines, or beamline optical systems. Direct experience with zone plates and nanodiffractive structures will be highly beneficial.

Required Application Materials:

A total of 3 documents:

• Relevant Publishing Record.

Notes:

• For full consideration, please apply by January 5th, 2025.
• This is a full time 2 year, career-track term appointment that may be renewed to a maximum of five years and that may be converted to career based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds, and ongoing operational needs.
• If hired at a Level 1:
• This position is expected to pay $7,624 to $12,198 per month, which fits within the full salary range of $7,624 to $18,297 per month for this position.
• If hired at a Level 2:
• This position is expected to pay $8,928 to $14,287 per month, which fits within the full salary range of $8,928 to $21,429 per month for this position.
• 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.
• 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.
• Work will be primarily performed at: Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.

Learn About Us:

Berkeley Lab (LBNL) addresses the world’s most urgent scientific challenges by advancing sustainable energy, protecting human health, creating new materials, and revealing the origin and fate of the universe.

The core values of the ALS reflect a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We seek candidates who will support a culture in which each member of the community feels welcomed and valued.