Senior Research Scientist (PREP0004123

PREP Research Associate – CHIPS Funded Project

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP) is recruiting a Research Associate for a CHIPS‑funded project titled "Understanding failure in novel microelectronics material systems". Preference is given to U.S. citizens. The role involves performing peridynamic‑based analysis for fracture behavior in microelectronics materials, transitioning between brittle and ductile failure modes and between quasi‑static and dynamic conditions.

The work focuses primarily on interface failure caused by loading near or away from dielectric/metal interfaces commonly found in semiconductor device fabrication and operation.

• Model elastic and elastoplastic behavior using peridynamics, based on nanoindentation data in brittle substrates containing ductile inclusions near the indentation site.
• Model interface failure due to loading near or distant from the interface between brittle and ductile regions.
• Investigate crack dynamics near material interfaces, analyzing interface strength.
• Publish results in peer‑reviewed scientific journals and present findings at scientific conferences.

• PhD in Materials Science or a closely related field.
• 10 years of experience in computational materials research.
• Proficiency with computational techniques for analyzing elastoplastic behavior, including peridynamic analysis.
• Familiarity with materials used in microelectronic devices and assemblies.
• Independent worker with strong written and oral communication skills.

Equal Opportunity

Employer:

The National Institute of Standards and Technology is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or any other protected status.