Postdoctoral Fellow (PREP0004328)

Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore (MD); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins University is seeking a Research Associate for the CHIPS-funded project. The role involves applying advanced optical metrology and collaborating with various institutions. Candidates will lead experiments, perform data analysis, and contribute to significant scientific publications.

A Ph.D. in a relevant field and strong programming skills are required. This position offers a unique opportunity to work in a multidisciplinary lab environment focused on semiconductor processes.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a related field is required.
• Experience with optical measurements and frequency combs is highly desirable.
• Strong programming skills for data analysis and instrument interfacing are necessary.
• Excellent technical writing ability and collaborative mindset are essential.

Responsibilities

• Drive the development and alignment of high‑accuracy electro‑optic frequency comb spectrometers.
• Execute time‑resolved molecular spectroscopy experiments and analyze complex datasets.
• Build and maintain Python‑based tools for various data processes.
• Lead authoring high‑impact manuscripts and represent research at conferences.

Skills

Experimental Leadership

Advanced Optical Metrology

Computational Analysis

Scientific Communication

Strong Programming Skills

Education

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

Job description

PREP Research Associate – CHIPS Funded Project

This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience (PREP) program. The role involves collaborating with academic institutions on the CHIPS-funded project, applying advanced optical metrology to semiconductor processes. Candidates will be responsible for real‑time mid‑IR spectroscopy of atomic layer deposition processes, quantifying precursor partial pressures and reaction byproducts with microsecond resolution.

U.S. Citizen Preferred

Key Responsibilities

• Experimental Leadership: Drive the development and alignment of high‑accuracy electro‑optic frequency comb spectrometers.
• Advanced Optical Metrology: Execute time‑resolved molecular spectroscopy experiments and analyze complex datasets by fitting spectra to molecular databases such as HITRAN.
• Computational Analysis: Build and maintain Python‑based tools for signal processing, noise reduction, automated data acquisition, and data analysis.
• Scientific Communication: Lead authoring high‑impact manuscripts and represent NIST’s research at international conferences.

Qualifications

• Education: Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Optical Engineering, or a related field.
• Technical Expertise: Proven experience with optical measurements; direct experience with frequency combs or molecular spectroscopy highly desirable.
• Programming: Strong programming skills for data analysis and instrument interfacing.
• Soft Skills: Collaborative mindset suited for a fast‑paced, multidisciplinary lab environment and excellent technical writing ability.

Equal Opportunity Employer