Postdoctoral Fellow; PREP

General Description

PREP Research Position in Integrated Photonic Sensors and Standards

This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience (PREP) program. NIST supports collaboration with academic institutions through PREP awards, requiring recipient institutions. Employees in this position will perform technical work that underpins the scientific research of the collaboration. Salary levels vary depending on the candidate's experience.

Researcher in Integrated Photonic Sensors and Standards

The Quantum Measurement Division’s Applied Electrical Metrology Group seeks a highly motivated researcher to support the development of next‑generation integrated photonics–based thermal transfer standards. At NIST, you will gain research experience and measurement skills valuable for a career in academia, industry, or a national laboratory.

We are developing the next‑generation photonic integrated circuit (PIC) based AC–DC voltage transfer standard (PTTS). This chip‑scale device combines conventional AC‑DC transfer standard technology with ultra‑sensitive nanophotonic thermometry. Leveraging advances in nanofabrication, photonics, optical frequency metrology, and AC‑DC difference measurements, the PTTS chip aims to exceed the metrological performance of conventional thermal transfer standards.

Our research spans two complementary domains:

• Integrated photonics:
  Design, fabrication, and characterization of novel PIC‑based devices for sensing applications
• Optical frequency metrology:
  Development of new optical read‑out strategies based on laser locking, spectroscopy, and frequency‑comb techniques for high‑resolution optical readout and robust measurement solutions

Applicants with expertise in either domain are encouraged to apply. The position will be tailored to the candidate’s strengths and interests.

• Develop new photonic readout methods for sensing applications
• Conduct laser spectroscopy and frequency locking to nanophotonic systems
• Perform optical frequency metrology for nanophotonic applications
• Design, nanofabricate, and characterize integrated photonic devices

• Work on cutting‑edge nanophotonics science and technology projects
• Play an active role in defining new research directions and programs
• Be a member of a multidisciplinary collaborative team of scientists
• Submit project‑related invention disclosures and patent applications
• Publish in prestigious scientific journals and present at technical conferences

• Ph.D. or equivalent experience in natural sciences, engineering, or related fields
• Innovative thinking and ability to conduct research independently and collaboratively
• Hands‑on experimental skills and a desire to develop new research capabilities
• Effective written and oral communication skills
• Prior hands‑on experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Laser spectroscopy
  • Frequency combs
  • Integrated photonics
  • Micro‑/nanofabrication

The Johns Hopkins University is committed to equal opportunity for its faculty, staff, and students. The university does 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 other legally protected characteristic.