"Postdoctoral Fellow (PREP00004093)"

General Description

NIST-PREP Research Position in Photonic Science and Technology

This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience (PREP) program. The PREP program enables collaborative research between NIST and academic institutions on projects of mutual scientific interests. Participants support research efforts across a wide range of disciplines and perform technical work that advances NIST's mission.

RESEARCH TITLE
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Integrated Photonics

POSITION OVERVIEW

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with expertise in integrated photonics and nanofabrication to join the Fundamental Thermodynamics Group through the PREP program. You will contribute to the development of next-generation photonic integrated circuit (PIC)-based temperature sensors: a chip-scale device designed to transform precision thermometry. The role provides the opportunity to gain advanced experimental skills and research experience valuable for careers in academia, industry, or national laboratories. Based on the candidate's experience, the position can be extended to a research scientist. Salary levels vary with experience.

PROJECT DETAILS

Temperature is one of the most widely measured physical properties and is essential across nearly all scientific and technological fields. To meet the growing need for precise, accurate, and field-deployable temperature metrology, our team is developing an on-chip photonic thermometer that functions as both a sensor and a deployable primary temperature standard. This self-calibrated device offers a transformative alternative to legacy resistance thermometers and has the potential to redefine how temperature is realized and disseminated worldwide.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design, nanofabrication, characterization, and packaging of PIC-devices
• Development and refinement of PIC-based sensing applications
• Implementation and optimization of experimental setups for photonic and thermometric measurements
• Data analysis, modeling, and interpretation to evaluate device performance and guide design improvements

OPPORTUNITIES FOR CANDIDATE

• Work on cutting-edge nanophotonics research with real-world metrology impact
• Shape new research directions and contribute to emerging programs
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers
• Submit invention disclosures and patent applications
• Publish in leading scientific journals and present at technical conferences
• Access the state-of-the-art NIST NanoFab cleanroom facility (www.nist.gov/cnst)

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent experience in natural sciences, engineering, or related fields
• Innovative thinking and strong experimental skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Effective written and oral communication skills
• Prior hands-on experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Micro-/nanofabrication
  • Integrated photonics design and characterization

Applicants with strengths in PIC design, numerical simulations, or device-level metrology are encouraged to apply.

OTHER DETAILS

• U.S. citizenship is strongly preferred
• Full-time (40 hours/week)
• Location: NIST Gaithersburg, Maryland
• Duration: 1-year appointment, with possible extension
• Applications accepted until filled
• Contact: Dr. Nikolai N. Klimov (nklimov@nist.gov).

Application Instructions

Please upload the following with your application:

• CV/Resume

Please limit C.V to 3 pages only and ONLY include a valid email address for your contact info. Your resume will not be considered if the following information is included on your CV/resume.

• Self portraits
• Phone number
• Home address/Country
• Citizenship status
• Languages spoken
• Sex/Gender