Electrochemical Engineering Postdoctoral Scholar

About the role

This role involves simulating fuel cell systems and related electrochemical devices using mathematical models. The work includes model development, validation, and execution, collaborating with research partners to verify and explain experimental data. The model will identify critical barriers and suggest strategies for performance optimization and durability.

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine mathematical models to examine multidimensional, multiphysics transport within electrochemical cells, including various layers such as porous transport layers, gas-diffusion and microporous layers, membranes, and catalyst layers.
• Analyze results to identify performance limitations and deficiencies in the model, proposing new mathematical constructs to address these issues.
• Pursue microstructural simulations of transient phenomena within single components.
• Incorporate AI/ML approaches (such as physics-informed neural networks) for surrogate model development.
• Validate model activities and compare simulation results to experimental data for both input parameters and output results.
• Publish original research in peer-reviewed journals; contribute to scientific publications; present research through talks and posters at conferences, workshops, and multi-investigator meetings.
• Adhere to Berkeley Lab and ETA safety requirements.
• Meet milestones and report progress to DOE and industrial sponsors.
• Collaborate and work with a team of researchers from diverse backgrounds, and interface with research teams from across industry, academia, and national laboratories.

Additional Responsibilities

• Work on experimental characterization of cell performance and measurement of component properties.
• Interact with the LBNL fuel cell and electrochemistry community to aid in electrochemistry research.
• Participate in professional society activities.

Qualifications

• PhD in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, applied physics, or a closely related field.
• Experience with mathematical modeling, particularly in the application of transport phenomena in fuel cells or related devices at various scales.
• Familiarity with high-performance computing and code development, including the use of AI/ML and surrogate model development for multiscale analysis.
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, and technical writing abilities.
• Ability to learn rapidly and integrate new fields to demonstrate creative problem-solving skills.
• Ability and willingness to work in a team environment and collaborate with researchers from various backgrounds.
• Ability to work independently with a high level of scientific judgment and initiative.
• Knowledge of electrochemistry and related diagnostic methods and materials for fuel cells (both low and intermediate temperatures).
• Knowledge of constitutive relations and continuum theories.

Desired Skills/Knowledge

• Demonstrated ability to tackle cross-disciplinary research problems from initiation to meaningful conclusion.
• Experience with electrochemistry, hydrogen fuel cells, and transport phenomena.
• Strong experience with finite-element methods and Comsol.
• Familiarity with machine learning and associated big data techniques.

Application Materials

Please submit the following application materials:

• A cover letter describing your interest in this position and the relevance of your background.
• Your curriculum vitae (CV) or resume.

Additional Information

This is a full-time 2-year postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of renewal based on performance, funding, and operational needs. The monthly salary range for this position is $6,891 - $7,609.00, starting at $6,891 or above. The position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment. This position is subject to a work modality requiring on-site attendance at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. It is also union-represented.