Postdoctoral Fellow (PREP0004695)

Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore (MD); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins University is seeking a PREP Research Associate for a project at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The role involves leading the development of a neutron generator-based prompt gamma activation analysis (PGAA) instrument to enhance nuclear analytical techniques.

The ideal candidate will hold a PhD in Nuclear Engineering and possess expertise in radiation detection and design of neutron moderators. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to scientific journals and conferences.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field is essential.
• Proficiency in radiation detection principles.
• Experience in design and assembly of neutron moderators.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement a neutron moderator for thermal neutron irradiation.
• Establish neutron and gamma-ray detection systems.
• Perform PGAA spectral analysis.

Skills

Nuclear Engineering expertise

Radiation detection principles

Hands-on design skills

Expertise in gamma-ray spectrometry

Education

PhD in Nuclear Engineering or related field

Job description

PREP Research Associate – CHIPS Funded Project

Position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience (PREP) program, which partners research staff with academic institutions on collaborative projects.

Research Title: Development of neutron generator-based prompt gamma activation analysis (PGAA) instrument.

The incumbent will lead a project to extend current reactor-dependent nuclear analytical techniques to laboratory neutron sources, such as DD and DT neutron generators. PGAA is a non‑destructive technique capable of multi‑elemental analysis of materials, enabling quantitative measurement of light elements (B, H) along with matrix elements. The project leverages existing PGAA facilities at the NIST Center for Neutron Research, addressing challenges of lower neutron intensity through design of neutron moderators, detector shielding, geometry optimization, and pulse‑based coincidence detection for background reduction.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement a neutron moderator for the neutron generator to produce a thermal neutron irradiation sample position.
• Establish neutron and gamma‑ray detection systems, including detectors and electronics for PGAA measurements for elemental analysis in semiconductor materials.
• Perform PGAA spectral analysis.
• Investigate coincidence detection schemes to enhance detection limits.
• Publish findings in peer‑reviewed scientific journals and present at relevant meetings and conferences.

Qualifications

• PhD in Nuclear Engineering or a related field.
• Proficiency in radiation detection principles based on neutron and gamma‑ray interaction with materials.
• Experience with radiation transport simulations and hands‑on ability in design and assembly of neutron moderators for optimal thermal output.
• Expertise in nuclear digital and analog electronics related to operation of high‑purity germanium detectors and gamma‑ray spectrometry.

U.S. citizenship is preferred.

Equal Opportunity Employer

NIST is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status.