Postdoctoral Fellow; PREP

PREP Research Associate (CHIPS Funded Project)

This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience (PREP) program. The PREP program allows NIST researchers to collaborate with academic institutions on projects of mutual interest, requiring that such institutions receive a PREP award. Employees in this role will perform technical work that underpins the scientific research of the collaboration. U.S. citizenship is preferred.

Development of neutron generator-based prompt gamma activation analysis (PGAA) instrument

The incumbent will lead an effort to extend current reactor-dependent nuclear analytical techniques to those based on laboratory neutron sources, such as DD and DT neutron generators. PGAA is a non-destructive nuclear analytical technique that enables multi-elemental analysis of materials based on isotope‑specific prompt gamma‑ray emission from the de‑excitation of the nucleus following thermal neutron capture. It uniquely allows quantitative measurement of light elements such as B and H while simultaneously determining major and minor matrix elements.

The project leverages NIST’s expertise from reactor‑based PGAA, overcoming lower neutron intensity through careful design of the neutron moderator, optimization of detector shielding and geometry, and exploitation of the pulse nature of the generator for coincidence detection to achieve background reduction.

• Design and implement a neutron moderator for the neutron generator to produce a thermal neutron irradiation sample position.
• Establish neutron and gamma‑ray detection systems, including detectors and electronics for PGAA measurements of elemental analysis in semiconductor materials.
• Perform PGAA spectral analysis.
• Investigate coincidence detection schemes to enhance detection limits.
• Publish findings in peer‑reviewed scientific journals and present at relevant meetings and conferences.

• PhD in Nuclear Engineering or a related field.
• Proficiency in radiation detection principles based on neutron and gamma‑ray interaction with materials.
• Experience with radiation transport simulations and hands‑on ability in the design and assembly of neutron moderators for optimal thermal output.
• Expertise in nuclear digital and analog electronics related to operation of high‑purity germanium detectors and gamma‑ray spectrometry.

The referenced salary range represents the minimum and maximum salaries for this position and is based on Johns Hopkins University’s good faith belief at the time of posting. Not all candidates will be eligible for the upper end of the salary range. The actual compensation offered to the selected candidate may vary and will ultimately depend on factors such as geographic location, skills, work experience, internal equity, market conditions, and education/training.

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