Postdoctoral Researcher Nanocalorimetry of Atomic Layer Deposition Processes

The Material Measurement Laboratory of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is seeking qualified persons (U.S. citizens preferred) to join a multi-disciplinary team of scientists working on advanced nanocalorimetry measurements, including developing methods for applying the technique to in situ monitoring of semiconductor processes. The candidate will implement chip-based nanocalorimeters on atomic layer deposition (ALD) processes to obtain in situ thermal process data and quantify the thermochemistry of surface reactions.

• Operating and maintaining multiple ALD system and custom nanocalorimetry setups
• Setting up and operating in situ calorimetric and optical instrumentation
• Modeling time-resolved calorimeter data to extract thermophysical quantities
• Characterizing deposited films using analytical techniques
• Publishing findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals and presenting at conferences

• Expertise in building and maintaining custom lab instrumentation and vacuum hardware
• Expertise in safe operation, use, and maintenance of ALD equipment
• Knowledgeable in thermal metrology such as calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis
• Operation of in situ process diagnostics, including custom optical absorption 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

• Experience in the semiconductor industry, particularly in ALD precursors and process tools
• Thermal modeling of surfaces and interfaces

This opportunity is to be an associate researcher in the NIST Chemical Sciences Division for a term of 1 year, with options to renew. Associate researchers are NOT Federal Employees, but they work along with NIST researchers and with NIST’s world-class instrumentation. Relocation expenses will not be provided. U.S. citizens hired into associate positions may have the opportunity to seek longer term Federal Employment.

An Associate at NIST is not a federal employee but collaborates with NIST on research projects of mutual interest and does not work exclusively on NIST mission-related activities. If you have any questions, please contact the International and Academic Affairs Office at IAAO .

$80,000 to $105,000 per year, based on experience