Postdoctoral Fellow; PREP

PREP Research Associate – CHIPS Funded Project

Position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP). NIST collaborates with academic institutions on projects of mutual interest. The PREP program involves staff from a wide range of backgrounds conducting scientific research across various fields. Individuals in this position will perform technical work supporting the collaboration’s scientific research.

Digital Twins for Atomic Layer Deposition Processes

The Chemical Sciences Division of NIST is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join a multi-disciplinary team of scientists working on advanced modeling of atomic layer deposition (ALD) processes. The project will develop a suite of in situ metrology tools to quantify mass transport processes occurring during thermal ALD. Metrology data will support the development of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and machine learning (ML) models of transport and surface reaction processes, with the ultimate goal of producing validated digital twins for thermal ALD processes.

The team includes experts in vapor phase deposition processes, in situ optical metrology, micro‑electromechanical system (MEMS) design, numerical modeling, and machine learning. NIST has unique facilities for the development and application of fast and sensitive in situ diagnostics for vapor phase deposition processes. Multiple research‑grade ALD systems dedicated to oxide, metal, and sulfide film deposition are available, as well as optical measurements spanning the UV and mid‑IR wavelengths tailored for surface and gas‑phase processes.

• Operating and maintaining multiple ALD systems and custom in situ optical setups
• Performing temporally- and spatially-resolved optical measurements during ALD
• Using and analyzing optical process data to validate transport models
• Publishing findings in peer‑reviewed scientific journals and presenting at conferences

• Hands‑on expertise in design and assembly of research‑grade ALD reactors
• Expertise in building and maintaining custom lab instrumentation
• Expertise in vapor phase deposition processes such as ALD
• Safe operation and maintenance of ALD systems
• Operation of in situ process diagnostics, including custom optical setups
• Knowledgeable in vapor transport mechanisms, precursor chemistry, and process development/optimization applicable to ALD
• Ph.D. or equivalent experience in chemistry, physics, materials science, or related field
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Ability to work as part of a team and independently

U.S. Citizen Preferred

Equal opportunity for all qualified individuals. NIST is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer. Employment is not based on sex, gender, marital status, pregnancy, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.