Research Associate, Research Scientist

Job Summary

The Materials Measurement Laboratory of the National Institute of Standards and Technology is seeking qualified persons to join a multi‑disciplinary team of scientists working to advance the current state‑of‑the‑art in nanocalorimetry‑based measurements for monitoring semiconductor manufacturing processes. This individual will work closely with the leaders of this multi‑effort project but will personally be responsible for improving our measurement capabilities by making upgrades to existing hardware, software, and strategies for integrating the technique with plasma‑ and ALD‑based tools used in semiconductor manufacturing.

The position is part of NIST’s Professional Research Experience Program (PREP), a partnership with the University of Colorado Boulder that provides research opportunities to undergraduate and graduate students, as well as researchers with a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD. The role will support technical work for collaborative research projects in the Nanomechanical Properties Group.

• Design and assemble new instrumentation to improve the accuracy, sensitivity, speed, and stability of nanocalorimetry measurements. Includes developing LabVIEW‑based data acquisition systems, integrating new and existing hardware, and data analysis workflows.
• Perform measurements to characterize the thermal properties of thin‑film materials.
• Support parallel research efforts to utilize nanocalorimetry for in‑situ monitoring of semiconductor manufacturing processes.
• Publish results in peer‑reviewed scientific journals and present results at scientific conferences.

• PhD in materials science, physics, chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field.
• Current residence in Gaithersburg, Maryland, United States.

• Hands‑on experience building and maintaining custom laboratory instrumentation, including extensive experience with LabVIEW.
• Experience with FPGA modules preferred.
• Expertise designing custom electronics, including PCB layout and analog circuit design.
• Knowledge of common nanofabrication processes and experience working in clean rooms a plus.
• Knowledge of thermal property measurements; hands‑on experience or specialized knowledge of calorimetry preferred.
• Strong written and oral communication skills; ability to work independently and in a team.

Salary range for this full‑time position is $78,000 – $135,000 annually.

At CU Boulder, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. CU Boulder is one of Boulder County’s largest employers and provides an inspiring academic community and access to world‑class outdoor recreation.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply.

• Resume or CV
• Cover letter addressed to the Search Committee briefly describing your qualifications, professional goals, and specific interest in this position.

Instructions:
Applications will be accepted only through the CU Boulder Jobs system. The Final date to receive applications is March 16, 2026.

Note:

In accordance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, you may redact or remove age‑identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.