This position is part of the National Institute of Standards (NIST) Professional Research Experience (PREP) program. NIST recognizes that its research staff may wish to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest and thus requires that such institutions be the recipients of a PREP award. The PREP program requires staff from a wide range of backgrounds to work on scientific research in many areas. Employees in this position will perform technical work that underpins the scientific research of the collaboration.
Research Title:
Rapid surface particle-, and impurity detection and quantification at a wafer scale
The work will entail:
Research and develop novel surface chemistries and nano-optical engineering methods. Test the function of the nanoengineered surfaces by investigating their sensing and binding affinities towards different metal and non-metal ions/particles. Perform different microscopies for testing the efficacy of the surface functionalized surfaces and improve their design. Assist with the design and simulation of the experimental results and use modeling for more effective surface trapping processes for detection of sub-20 nm particles. Communicate and collaborate with team members, other NIST teams, and external teams. Present and publish results as appropriate.
Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
- Carrying micro/nanofabrication,
- Impurity detection in high purity solvents,
- Simulation and modeling of nanoparticle trapping mechanisms,
- Performing single particle detection and spectroscopy for rapid particle sensing on a wafer scale,
- Using different microscopies including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) and optical microscopy (OM) equipped with a cryogenic stage for surface analysis.
- Presenting results at internal meetings, and occasional meetings with external stakeholders.
- Ensuring that results, protocols, software, and documentation have been archived or otherwise transmitted to the larger organization.
Qualifications
- PhD degree in Materials, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
- 7 years of relevant experience.
- Micro-fabrication, nanoparticle flow cell delivery methods, cavity fluidic, biosensing.
- Nanoparticle trapping techniques using optical methods and their dynamic study.
- Skilled in modeling of electro-optical nanosystems.
- Ability to work with real-time event data at scale.
- Familiarity with multiple scripting languages.
- Ability to develop prototypes of tools needed to analyze data.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
The university is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer that does not unlawfully discriminate in any of its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law.