Postdoctoral researcher
The Chemical Sciences Division of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is seeking a
postdoctoral researcher to join a multi-disciplinary team of scientists working on advanced modeling of
atomic layer deposition (ALD) processes. The project will develop a suite of in situ metrology tools to
quantify mass transport processes occurring during thermal ALD. Metrology data will support the
development of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and machine learning (ML) models of transport and
surface reaction processes, with the ultimate goal of producing validated digital twins for thermal ALD
processes. The project team includes experts in vapor phase deposition processes, in situ optical
metrology, micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) design, numerical modeling, and machine learning.
NIST maintains unique facilities for the development and application of fast and sensitive in situ
diagnostics for vapor phase deposition processes. Multiple research-grade ALD systems dedicated to
oxide, metal, and sulfide film deposition are available, as well as optical measurements spanning the UV
and mid-IR wavelengths tailored for surface and gas-phase processes.
Digital Twins for Atomic Layer Deposition Processes (CHIPS Funded Project)
- Hands-on expertise in the design and assembly of research-grade ALD reactors
- Expertise in building and maintaining custom lab instrumentation
- Expertise in vapor phase deposition processes such as ALD
- Safe operation and maintenance of ALD systems
- Operation of in situ process diagnostics, including custom optical setups
- Knowledgeable in vapor transport mechanisms, precursor chemistry, and process
development/optimization applicable to ALD - Ph.D. or equivalent experience in chemistry, physics, materials science, or related field
- Strong written and oral communication skills
- Ability to work as part of a team and independently
Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
- Operating and maintaining multiple ALD system and custom in situ optical setups
- Performing temporally- and spatially-resolved optical measurements during ALD
- Using and analyzing optical process data to validate transport models
- Publishing findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals and presenting at conferences