Postdoctoral Scholar at Process Simulation & Techno-Economic Analysis (TEA)

University of California

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Vacancy

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Description

The University of California, Berkeley, in partnership with the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar position. This opportunity will be conducted under the guidance of Prof. Jay Keasling and Dr. Chang Dou, Senior Engineer at the Advanced Biofuels and Bioproducts Process Development Unit (ABPDU). UC Berkeley stands as a leading institution committed to groundbreaking research and innovation. The collaborative environment with Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory offers access to world-class facilities and expertise. The selected scholar will join a team dedicated to advancing scientific discovery and practical applications. The university actively fosters diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of academic and professional life. It values contributions from individuals of varied backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. Discrimination based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or any other protected characteristic is strictly prohibited. UC Berkeley upholds a zero-tolerance policy for harassment and bias. The institution aims to create an environment where all members feel respected, supported, and empowered. This position provides both professional growth and the opportunity to contribute to high-impact research. 

Responsibilities

Position Overview

The postdoctoral scholar will lead Techno-Economic Analysis (TEA) for continuous bioprocesses that employ microbial strains with switchable metabolic pathways. This work will directly support the advancement of demand-responsive biomanufacturing strategies. The role involves evaluating process efficiency, scalability, and cost-effectiveness to guide research and development priorities. Close collaboration with experimental teams will ensure alignment between modeling outcomes and laboratory results. Findings will inform both technical decisions and potential commercialization pathways. Through this analysis, the scholar will play a pivotal role in shaping innovative, market-ready biomanufacturing solutions:

• Designing, simulating, and optimizing processes using advanced modeling tools.
• Conducting economic feasibility and sustainability evaluations of bioprocess systems.
• Engaging with multidisciplinary collaborators, including strain and process engineers.
• Publishing results in peer-reviewed journals and presenting findings at leading conferences. 

Position Information

1. Title: Postdoctoral Employee
2. Salary Range: $66,737 – $74,425 (aligned with UC academic salary scales)
3. Appointment Length: 28 months, with the possibility of extension
4. Target Start Date: Fall 2025 (negotiable)
5. Application Deadline: August 29, 2025 

Qualification

Required Qualifications

Applicants must hold a PhD, or an international equivalent, in a relevant discipline by the start date of the position. The qualification should reflect strong academic training and research capability in the field. Candidates should have no more than three years of postdoctoral research experience at the time of application. This requirement ensures alignment with the career stage targeted for the role. The position is designed to support early-career researchers in advancing their expertise. 

• PhD (or international equivalent) in a relevant discipline completed by the start date.
• No more than three years of postdoctoral research experience.

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred candidates will have a background in Techno-Economic Analysis, industrial biotechnology, or sustainability assessment. Such expertise will enhance the quality and applicability of the research. These skills are particularly valuable for bridging scientific innovation with practical, real-world implementation. 

• Background in TEA, industrial biotechnology, or sustainability assessment.

Application Materials

Applicants should submit a complete application package that includes a Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing academic and professional history. A tailored Cover Letter should outline the candidate’s interest in the position and fit with the research program. A Research Statement must highlight previous accomplishments and describe future goals. Candidates should also provide contact information for three to five professional references. Reference letters are not required at the time of submission. 

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Cover Letter
• Research Statement outlining previous accomplishments and future goals
• Contact information for 3–5 professional references (no letters required at submission)

How to Apply

Submit applications via the UC Berkeley Recruitment Portal.  

More about the research team: Keasling Lab Website 

For further inquiries, please email UC Berkeley: m.p.mennie@berkeley.edu.