Postdoctoral researcher
The Materials Measurement Laboratory of the National Institute of Standards and Technology is seeking
qualified candidates (U.S. Citizens Preferred) for a fiber, composites, and polymer scientist position to
lead metrology development in thermomechanical/thermal analysis, chemical analysis, electron
microscopy, and structure–property relationships for complex high strength fibers as well as polymeric
and composite materials. This role requires hands-on ownership of advanced instrumentation,
development of robust and reproducible test methods, and translation of results into actionable
guidance for materials design, performance evaluation, and reliability.
Work Location is Physically at NIST (Gaithersburg, MD).
Fiber, composites, and polymer scientist
- Ph.D. in materials science, polymer science, fiber science, chemical engineering, or a related
discipline - Expertise in molecular spectroscopy, with experience analyzing single fibers
- Hands-on experience with thermal analysis (DSC, DMA/TGA/TMA)
- Experience working with complex materials (high-strength fibers, composite armor, or structural
composites) - Background in polymer viscoelasticity and physics
- Strong quantitative/data skills (Matlab/Python/Origin)
- Demonstrated record of technical writing and public speaking
- Ability to lead projects, mentor students/postdocs, and coordinate collaborations
U.S. Citizens Preferred
Desirable Qualifications:
- Experience in long-term reliability studies
Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
- Design and execute thermomechanical characterization of polymeric/composite systems
- Develop techniques to fabricate model fiber/composite systems with novel properties
- Lead thermal, thermomechanical, and chemical/structural characterization of materials
- Author peer-reviewed publications and present research to stakeholders
- Support collaborative programs and deliver stakeholder technical solutions