Postdoctoral Researcher

Postdoctoral Position: AI-Driven High-Throughput Scanning Probe Instrumentation

SPID–NUANCE Facility | Northwestern University

The Northwestern Atomic and Nanoscale Characterization Experimental Center (NUANCE) at Northwestern University is seeking an exceptional postdoctoral researcher to join the Scanning Probe Instrumentation Development (SPID) program. This position is focused on advancing high-throughput, AI-enabled nanomechanical characterization, functional imaging, and nanopatterning, leveraging NUANCE’s state-of-the-art scanning probe infrastructure.

This role is central to NUANCE’s strategic direction toward autonomous and data-centric materials characterization, integrating machine learning, intelligent experiment control, and advanced instrumentation within a shared user facility environment.

The successful candidate will lead efforts to develop and deploy AI-assisted and high-throughput workflows for scanning probe microscopy (SPM)–based characterization, including but not limited to:

• High-Throughput Nanomechanics and Functional Imaging
• Development of automated nanoindentation, force-mapping, and functional SPM workflows
• Adaptive and data-driven mapping of heterogeneous materials systems
• Integration of stimulus-response experiments (thermal, mechanical, electrical)
• AI / Machine Learning for SPM Systems
• Application of machine learning techniques (e.g., Bayesian optimization, adaptive sampling, computer vision) for intelligent scan control
• Real-time data analysis and feedback during SPM experiments
• Automated feature detection, tip condition assessment, and experiment optimization
• Instrumentation and Facility Integration
• Close collaboration with NUANCE and SPID staff to integrate AI tools into existing SPM platforms
• Contribution to instrument development, testing, and user-ready deployment
• Support of SPID’s mission as a shared research facility, including user training and technical support

• PhD in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Chemistry, or a closely related field (completed within the past five years)
• Strong experimental background in scanning probe microscopy (AFM, nanoindentation, functional SPM, or related techniques)
• Demonstrated experience or strong interest in AI/ML, data-driven experimentation, or automation of scientific instruments
• Proven record of peer-reviewed publications
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment
• Excellent communication and technical writing skills

• Experience applying machine learning or computer vision to experimental data
• Familiarity with high-throughput experimentation or autonomous measurement strategies
• Experience working in shared user facilities or complex instrumentation environments
• Programming experience (e.g., Python, MATLAB, C/C++) for data analysis or instrument control
• Initial appointment: 2 years, with possibility of extension based on performance and mutual agreement
• This position is not applicable to foreign students; candidates must have authorization to work in the United States at the time of appointment

Interested candidates should send a CV and brief statement of research interests to:

SPID–NUANCE Facility

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For more information about NUANCE and SPID capabilities, please visit: