Assistant Research Scientist (PREP0004122)

Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore (MD); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins University is seeking a Research Associate to join the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) PREP program. This role involves working on innovative frequency synthesis and phase metrology projects, requiring strong skills in RF/microwave signal analysis and FPGA development.

The ideal candidate should hold a degree in a STEM field and possess proficiency in tools like Altium Designer. The position emphasizes collaboration in scientific research and technical design.

Qualifications

• U.S. citizen preferred.
• High level skill in RF/microwave signal analysis.
• Experience with phase-locked loops.
• Familiarity with phase noise metrology is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Design and construct low-phase frequency synthesizers.
• Perform amplitude and phase noise metrology.
• Design PCB layouts and develop measurement system circuits.
• Develop FPGA-based measurement system firmware.
• Present results at internal meetings and with external stakeholders.
• Archive results, protocols, software, and documentation.

Skills

RF/microwave signal analysis

System design

FPGA with Xilinx ZynQ

MATLAB

LabView

Python

Education

Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in a STEM discipline

Tools

FPGA

Altium Designer

Job description

Research Overview

PREP Research Associate position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience (PREP) program. NIST collaborates with academic researchers and requires that such institutions receive a PREP award. The program engages staff from a wide range of backgrounds to work on scientific research. Employees in this position will perform technical work that underpins the scientific research of the collaboration.

Research Title and Focus

Advanced Low-Noise Frequency Synthesis and Phase Noise Metrology.

The work focuses on innovating low‑phase and amplitude noise frequency synthesis techniques from radio to optical frequencies and developing advanced analog and digital measurement systems for precise phase and time characterization. The project aims to create robust measurement architectures that bridge analog front‑ends and FPGA‑based digital signal processing for next‑generation atomic clocks and ultra‑low‑noise oscillators.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and construct low‑phase frequency synthesizers and oscillators.
• Perform amplitude and phase noise metrology.
• Design PCB layouts and develop measurement system circuits.
• Develop FPGA‑based measurement system firmware.
• Present results at internal meetings and occasional meetings with external stakeholders.
• Archive or otherwise transmit results, protocols, software, and documentation to the larger organization.

Qualifications

• U.S. citizen preferred.
• Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. degree in a STEM discipline.
• High level skill in RF/microwave signal analysis and system design.
• Experience with phase‑locked loops.
• Proficiency in FPGA with Xilinx ZynQ.
• Proficiency in Altium Designer.
• Familiarity with phase noise metrology is advantageous.
• Ability to code with, or learn to code with, MATLAB, LabView, and Python is required.

Equal Opportunity Employer

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 characteristics. The university is committed to providing qualified individuals access to all academic and employment programs, benefits and activities on the basis of demonstrated ability, performance and merit without regard to personal factors or demographic characteristics that are irrelevant to the program involved.