Career Center

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab's (LBNL) Energy Analysis & Environmental Impacts Division has an opening for a Postdoctoral Scholar to join the team.

In this exciting role, you will participate in developing and enhancing energy systems models to understand the energy demands and efficiency opportunities of information and communication technology (ICT) equipment and operations. You will conduct rigorous bottom-up energy demand projections and engineering technology assessments of ICT equipment and practices, including data center server/storage/network hardware, virtualization, cloud platforms, mobile devices, social media, big data, and cryptocurrency.

What You Will Do:

• Contribute to novel systems modeling methods in software such as Python, R, and Excel.
• Develop understanding of data centers, their installed IT devices, their cooling and power systems, and across the technology sector.
• Construct bottom-up energy demand projections and technology scenarios to evaluate potential impacts of deploying targeted technologies in key end-use applications and sectors.
• Collaborate with industry and expert groups to gather modeling data and develop credible assumptions that reflect current practices.
• Develop and maintain shared energy systems models and datasets, including through real-time collaborative platforms like Github.
• Analyze and summarize data and present findings at internal lab meetings and scientific conferences.
• Publish in peer-reviewed journals and contribute to scientific research papers and reports.
• Participate in routine Sustainable Energy System Group meetings.
• Assist with mentoring of interns.
• Contribute to research proposals and grants as needed.

What is Required:

• Recent Ph.D. in computer science, engineering, physical sciences, or related field.
• Programming experience and proficiency in energy modeling of technology systems, preferably information technologies.
• Interest in data center energy use, energy demand of various types of computing equipment (e.g. CPU vs GPU), and broader technology sector design and trends (e.g. grid edge, AI)
• Proven ability to publish results in relevant journals.
• Ability to develop effective data visualizations.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work in an integrated diverse team environment.
• Ability to work independently with minimal day-to-day supervision.
• Passion for solving science challenges, particularly in energy.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience analyzing technology-level energy data, developing technology-rich energy systems models, and identifying energy use drivers and relationships through methods such as multi-variable regression analysis.
• Experience conducting sensitivity and uncertainty analysis using energy systems models.
• General knowledge of data centers, their installed IT devices, their cooling and power systems, for different parts of the technology sector.
• Interest in multi-disciplinary research to influence policy and technology development.

Requested Application Materials:

• CV
• Cover letter with research statement
• Sample publication

The posting shall remain open until the position is filled, however for full consideration, please apply by close of business on March 31, 2023. Start date will be determined by the recruiter and candidate, but after the Spring 2023 Semester is acceptable

Want to learn more about Berkeley Lab's Culture, Benefits and answers to FAQs? Please visit: https://recruiting.lbl.gov/

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 4 years of paid postdoctoral experience. Salary for Postdoctoral positions depends on years of experience post-degree.
• The monthly salary range for this position is $4,636-$7,103 and is expected to start at $6433 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 and/or related research 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.

Based on University of California Policy - SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program and U.S Federal Government requirements, Berkeley Lab requires that all members of our community obtain the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as they are eligible. As a condition of employment at Berkeley Lab, all Covered Individuals must Participate in the COVID-19 Vaccination Program by providing proof that vaccination requirements have been met or submitting a request for Exception or Deferral. Visit covid.lbl.gov for more information.

Berkeley Lab is committed to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accountability (IDEA) and strives to continue building community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We heartily welcome applications from women, minorities, veterans, and all who would contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, inclusion, and professionalism. In support of our diverse 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, or protected veteran status.

Equal Opportunity and IDEA Information Links:

Know your rights, click here for the supplement: Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law and the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision under 41 CFR 60-1.4.