Postdoctoral Fellow; PREP

Postdoctoral Research Associate:
Advanced Optical Metrology for Semiconductor Processes

National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is seeking a driven Postdoctoral Research Associate to bridge the gap between fundamental frequency comb spectroscopy and industrial semiconductor fabrication. The role will involve deploying electro‑optical (EO) frequency combs to perform real‑time, in‑situ mid‑IR spectroscopy of Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) processes, directly impacting next‑generation microelectronics by quantifying deposition precursor partial pressures and reaction byproducts with microsecond resolution.

U.S. Citizen Preferred.

• Experimental Leadership:
  Drive the development and alignment of high‑accuracy EO frequency comb spectrometers.
• Advanced Optical Metrology:
  Execute time‑resolved molecular spectroscopy experiments; analyze complex data sets by fitting experimental spectra to molecular databases (e.g., HITRAN).
• Computational Analysis:
  Build and maintain Python‑based tools for signal processing, noise reduction, automated data acquisition, and data analysis.
• Scientific Communication:
  Lead the authoring of high‑impact manuscripts and represent NIST's research at international conferences.

• Education:
  
  Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Optical Engineering, or a related field.
• Technical Expertise:
  Proven experience with optical measurements; direct experience with frequency combs or molecular spectroscopy highly desirable.
• Programming:
  Strong programming skills for data analysis and instrument interfacing.
• Soft Skills:
  
  Collaborative mindset suited for a fast‑paced multidisciplinary lab environment and excellent technical writing ability.

The Johns Hopkins University is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of sex, gender, marital status, pregnancy, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status or any other legally protected characteristic. Qualified individuals with demonstrated ability, performance and merit are encouraged to apply.