Postdoctoral Fellow (PREP0004192)

Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore (MD); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins University is seeking a PREP Research Associate for the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program. This role focuses on developing quantum cascade laser infrared microscopy for measuring microplastics in water.

The successful candidate will advance microscopy techniques, analyze IR images, and collaborate with NIST staff. A Ph.D. in a relevant field and at least 2 years of IR microscopy experience are required. Strong communication skills are essential, and U.S. citizenship is preferred.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. degree in Chemistry, Physics, Polymer Physics, or a related field.
• 2+ years of experience with IR microscopy.
• Ability to analyze vibrational spectral data.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Advance instrumentation for high‑throughput QCL‑IR microscopy.
• Collect and analyze IR hyperspectral images.
• Discuss progress and results with NIST staff.
• Present results at internal meetings and with external stakeholders.
• Write papers based on method advancements and datasets.

Skills

IR microscopy

Data analysis

Oral communication

Written communication

Education

Ph.D. in Chemistry, Physics, or related field

Job description

Position Overview

PREP Research Associate – National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP). The role supports the development of a quantum cascade laser infrared microscopy technique for high‑throughput measurement of microplastic size distribution and chemical identification in water.

Key Responsibilities

• Advance instrumentation for high‑throughput QCL‑IR microscopy.
• Collect and analyze IR hyperspectral images of microplastics.
• Discuss progress and results with NIST staff.
• Present results at internal meetings and occasional meetings with external stakeholders.
• Write papers based on method advancements and datasets collected.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. degree in Chemistry, Physics, Polymer Physics, or a related field.
• 2+ years of experience with IR microscopy.
• Ability to analyze vibrational spectral data.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• U.S. citizen preferred.

Equal Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment, without regard to sex, gender, marital status, pregnancy, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status.