Postdoctoral Scholar

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 work in the Energy Market and Policy Department (EMP) of the Energy Analysis and Environmental Impacts (EAEI) Division.

You will be to conduct research especially under the China clean power system transition initiative, which seeks to 1) create accelerated transition vision for clean power system in China using latest technology cost information for renewable energy and storage; 2) develop the enabling market mechanism through electricity market reform; 3) manage financial and social risks of phasing out of coal power plants in China; 4) assess economic and social benefits as well as air quality and health-related costs of coal use to highlight the overall benefits of transition away from coal power.

You will use quantitative methodologies to develop clean transition pathways for China’s power system, evaluate various design options for the wholesale electricity market, and assess potential economic, financial, and social impacts of clean power system transition. You will help conduct literature review and data collection to support the development of modeling parameters and inputs for power system modeling in China including the wholesale electricity market, prepare scientific reports and conduct related technology and policy research. You will also have opportunities and are additionally expected to contribute to other projects and activities within EMP and EAEI.

What You Will Do:

• Design and conduct research in low carbon power system transition in China.
• Evaluate various design options for the wholesale electricity market.
• Assist with development of Gridpath China model, and its refinement.
• Identify, critically review, and synthesize information from published reports and available data.
• Develop China’s power system models with existing data and compile new data if needed.
• Conduct analysis on clean transition pathways for China’s power system and policy implications
• Communicate research results through technical reports, journal manuscripts, web pages, etc. and oral presentations at technical meetings.
• Adhere with ETA and EH&S safety guidelines and requirements.

Additional Responsibilities as needed:

• Support and contribute to the development of research project ideas and proposals.
• As opportunities arise and time allows, provide support to other projects and groups within the Energy Technologies Area of LBNL. 

What is Required:

• Recent Ph.D. degree in Energy or Electrical Engineering, Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Energy and Resources.
• Demonstrated work or research experience of a minimum of 2 years in the area of power system modeling and analysis of wholesale electricity market.
• In-depth knowledge of power system engineering, familiarity with climate and air quality modeling.
• Ability to work independently according to technical guidelines, and collaboratively as part of a team. 
• Proficiency in the use of optimization tools, computing statistical analysis, and visualization software (e.g. python, R).
• Demonstrated ability to write high-quality technical publications.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience working with energy and emissions, air pollutants, and conducting health impact analysis with familiarity of exposure-response functions.
• Ability to read and speak Chinese sources.
• Experience working with public entities and policymaking bodies.

For Consideration, please apply by April 15, 2024 with the following application materials:

• Cover Letter - Describe your interest in this position and the relevance of your background
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume

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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.
• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.
• The monthly salary range for this position is $7,455 / mo - $8,326.00 / mo and is expected to start at $7,455 / mo 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.

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.

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