Bioenergy Data Research Associate

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring a Bioenergy Data Research Associate within the Energy Analysis division. Under direct supervision, you will support the Scown Group and collaborate with the Joint BioEnergy Institute (JBEI)'s Lifecycle, Economics, and Agronomy Division. You will perform semi-routine research assignments, including working with data from experiments and field trials related to biomass feedstock production, processing, and conversion. You will help with preliminary data analysis, organize information, support the development of tools, and help design and manage databases.

You will provide the RA experience in harmonizing data from multiple sources into products to support decision making by researchers and partners. You will report directly to the supervisor and provide support for project milestones, with occasional interactions with scientists, engineers, and other research staff as directed. You will primarily perform computational work outside of the lab environment.

Other responsibilities include staying up to date on best practices for managing large biological datasets, assisting with translating data for use in tools and additional research, and performing basic cleaning of external data.

We're here for the same mission, to bring science solutions to the world. Join our team and YOU will play a supporting role in our goal to address global challenges! Have a high level of impact and work for an organization associated with 17 Nobel Prizes!

Why join Berkeley Lab?

We invest in our employees by offering a total rewards package you can count on:

• Exceptional health and retirement benefits, including pension or 401K-style plans

• A culture where you'll belong - we are invested in our teams!

• In addition to accruing vacation and sick time, we also have a Winter Holiday Shutdown every year.

• Parental bonding leave (for both mothers and fathers)

• Pet insurance

You will:

• Preliminary Data Analysis: Under direct supervision, clean and format data and assist other team members with analysis to support larger research goals on multiple projects as requested.

• Database Design: Work with direct supervisor on synthesizing existing datasets of biomass characterization and conversion performance data into a standard database format. Ensure resulting database products comply with best practices for database design and data sharing.

• Ensure Safety and Compliance: Adhere strictly to LBNL safety protocols, and uphold all Laboratory, Division, and Program policies. Contribute to and facilitate a strong safety culture.

• Experimental Design Support: Follow guidance from the direct supervisor to assist with research design and data collection by maintaining familiarity with existing datasets and best practices for data collection in bioenergy experiments.

• Technoeconomic (TEA) and Lifecycle (LCA) Analysis: Stay current on available tools in bioenergy TEA and LCA, and support team members by providing relevant data to experimental researchers.

• Additional Data Support: Apply and adapt existing bioenergy data management skills to support other areas of energy research as necessary.

We are looking for:

• 1-2 years of relevant experience working with real-world data and conducting related analysis.

• Familiarity with bioenergy processes, including feedstock management, processing, and conversion technologies, with a preference for knowledge of feedstocks sourced specifically in California.

• Strong data management skills, including the ability to maintain accurate and thorough experimental and procedural records.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a demonstrated commitment to ethical conduct, including integrity, honesty, and mutual respect in both intellectual and interpersonal workplace interactions.

Desired skills/knowledge:

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Biological Engineering, or related field or equivalent experience.

• Familiarity with database architecture and management systems

• Experience with managing and analyzing data related to agricultural production and processes.

• Experience with Life Cycle Analysis and/or Technoeconomic Analysis, especially in a field related to bioenergy.

Additional information:

• Application date: Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by 3/6/26. Applications will be accepted until the job posting is removed.

• Appointment type: This is a full-time, 1 year, term appointment with the possibility of extension or conversion to Career appointment based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs.

Salary range: The full salary range for this position is $26.90 - $41.67. The budgeted salary range that the Lab reasonably expects to pay for this position is $32.58 - $36.00. Salary offers will be commensurate with the final candidate's qualification and experience, including skills, knowledge, relevant education, and certifications, and also aligned with the internal peer group.

• 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: This position is eligible for a flexible work mode, with onsite or hybrid work being the preferred modes. Hybrid work is a combination of teleworking and performing work on-site at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. Individuals working a hybrid schedule must reside within 150 miles of Berkeley Lab. Work schedules are dependent on business needs.

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.