NIST PREP Research Scientist in Large Signal Microwave Measurements and Modeling for Advanced Materials

This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP). NIST recognizes that its research staff may want to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest and, therefore, requires those institutions to be recipients of a PREP award. The PREP program involves staff from a wide range of backgrounds conducting scientific research across various fields. Individuals in this position will perform technical work supporting the collaboration’s scientific research.

Research Title: Large Signal Microwave Measurements and Modeling for Advanced Materials

The work will entail:  Associate will work on large signal microwave-frequency electromagnetic measurements and modeling to evaluate the response of advanced materials including magnetic composites Measurements include oscilloscope and vector-network analyzer characterization of advanced materials and devices, including under high-power conditions. Connecting measurements to large-signal models of materials and devices is a key element.

U.S. Citizen Preferred

Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

• Perform microwave-frequency measurements using tools including a vector network analyzer and/or oscilloscope coupled with a high-power modulated signal source.
• Perform near-field and/or thermal imaging measurements with experimental setups that include scanning capabilities.
• Perform data analysis, uncertainty analysis, and modeling of material-loaded transmission lines and bulk fixtures.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree or equivalent experience in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, physics or related field.
• Experience with electromagnetic modeling, including finite element and/or circuit modeling.
• Proficiency with scripting (ex. read files, perform calculations, and plot results) in Python, Matlab, or another scientific programming language.
• Proficiency with the mathematical techniques used in physical sciences and engineering, especially linear algebra, differential equations, and statistics.
• Proficiency with the physical principles of electromagnetism, circuits, heat transport.
• Aptitude for laboratory work, particularly assembling instruments and performing electrical or electromagnetic measurements. This aptitude could be demonstrated through research experience, senior projects, advanced laboratory courses, or hobbies.

Privacy Act Statement
Authority:  15 U.S.C. § 278g-1(e)(1) and (e)(3) and 15 U.S.C. § 272(b) and (c)
Purpose:  The National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) hosts the  Professional Research Experience Program (PREP) which is designed to provide valuable laboratory experience and financial assistance to undergraduates, post-bachelor’s degree holders, graduate students, master’s degree holders, postdocs, and faculty.
PREP is a 5-year cooperative agreement between NIST laboratories and participating PREP Universities to establish a collaborative research relationship between NIST and U.S. institutions of higher education in the following disciplines including (but may not be limited to) biochemistry, biological sciences, chemistry, computer science, engineering, electronics, materials science, mathematics, nanoscale science, neutron science, physical science, physics, and statistics. This collection of information is needed to facilitate the administrative functions of the PREP Program
Routine Uses:  NIST will use the information collected to perform the requisite reviews of the applications to determine eligibility, and to meet programmatic requirements. Disclosure of this information is also subject to all the published routine uses as identified in the Privacy Act System of Records Notices:  NIST-1: NIST Associates.
Disclosure:  Furnishing this information is voluntary. When you submit the form, you are indicating your voluntary consent for NIST to use of the information you submit for the purpose stated. By applying to a CHIPS-funded PREP opportunity, you also acknowledge that participation in the project requires signing a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) prior to beginning any work.

SURA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that no one should be discriminated against because of their differences, such as age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity and expression, religion, or sexual orientation. All employment decisions shall be made without regard to age, race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status, or any other basis as protected by federal, state, or local law.

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