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 recognizes that its research staff may wish to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest, thus requires that such institutions must be the recipient of a PREP award. The PREP program requires staff from a wide range of backgrounds to work on scientific research in many areas.

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 at NIST is seeking for 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 that are highly 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 a conventional ac‑dc transfer standard technology and ultra‑sensitive nanophotonic thermometry. By leveraging recent 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 and overcome fundamental limitations of legacy technology.

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‑based techniques for high‑resolution optical readout and robust measurement solutions for the field

We encourage applicants with expertise in either domain to apply. The position will be tailored to the candidate's strengths and interests.

• Development of new photonic readout methods for sensing applications
• Laser spectroscopy and frequency locking to nanophotonic systems
• Optical frequency metrology for nanophotonic applications
• Design, nanofabrication, and characterization of 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 the ability to conduct research both 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

Please upload the following with your application:

• CV/Resume (limit to 3 pages only and include a valid email address for your contact info. Your resume will not be considered if the following information is included on your CV/resume.)
• Self portraits
• Phone number
• Home address/Country
• Citizenship status
• Languages spoken
• Sex/Gender

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 278g-1(e)(1) and (e)(3) and 15 U.S.C. § 272(b) and (c)

Purpose:

The National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) hosts the Professional Research Experience Program (PREP) which is designed to provide valuable laboratory experience and financial assistance to undergraduates, post‑bachelor's degree holders, graduate students,…