Postdoctoral Fellow; PREP

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Integrated Photonics

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with expertise in integrated photonics and nanofabrication to join the Fundamental Thermodynamics Group through the Professional Research Experience (PREP) program. The role focuses on developing next‑generation photonic integrated circuit (PIC)–based temperature sensors—a chip‑scale device designed to transform precision thermometry and serve as a deployable primary temperature standard.

Temperature is one of the most widely measured physical properties, yet the demand for precise, accurate, and field‑deployable temperature metrology continues to grow. Our team is creating an on‑chip photonic thermometer that functions as both a sensor and a primary temperature standard, offering a transformative alternative to legacy resistance thermometers and redefining how temperature is realized worldwide.

• Design, nanofabrication, characterization, and packaging of PIC devices
• Development and refinement of PIC‑based sensing applications
• Implementation and optimization of experimental setups for photonic and thermometric measurements
• Data analysis, modeling, and interpretation to evaluate device performance and guide design improvements

• Work on cutting‑edge nanophotonics research with real‑world metrology impact
• Shape new research directions and contribute to emerging programs
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers
• Submit invention disclosures and patent applications
• Publish in leading scientific journals and present at technical conferences
• Access the state‑of‑the‑art NIST Nano Fab cleanroom facility ((Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).)

Ph.D. or equivalent experience in natural sciences, engineering, or related fields.

• Innovative thinking and strong experimental skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Effective written and oral communication skills
• Prior hands‑on experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Micro‑/nanofabrication
• Integrated photonics design and characterization

Applicants with strengths in PIC design, numerical simulations, or device‑level metrology are encouraged to apply.

• U.S. citizenship is strongly preferred
• Full‑time (40 hours/week)
• Location:
  
  NIST Gaithersburg, Maryland
• Duration: 1‑year appointment, with possible extension
• Applications accepted until filled
• Contact:
  Dr. Nikolai N. Klimov

Please upload the following with your application:

• CV/Resume (maximum 3 pages, include a valid email address; do not include phone number, home address, citizenship status, languages spoken, or gender information)
• Self‑portrait

• Authority: 15 U.S.C. 278g‑1(e)(1) and (e)(3), 15 U.S.C. 272(b) and (c)
• Purpose:
  
  NIST hosts the PREP program to provide laboratory experience and financial assistance to students and faculty, establishing collaborative research relationships with U.S. institutions in various disciplines.
• Information collected supports administrative functions of the PREP program and is used in accordance with the Privacy Act System of Records Notice: NIST‑1 (NIST Associates).

NIST is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of sex, gender, marital status, pregnancy, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. Qualified individuals will have access to all employment programs and activities based on merit without regard to irrelevant personal factors.