Engineering a world of possibilities Post-Doctoral Fellow, Mines and NIST The Opportunity The Mines NIST PREP programseeks a scientist to join the Quantum Calorimeters Group at NIST and a team of researchers optimizing, calibrating, and using cryogenic sensors to perform x-ray emission and absorption spectroscopy with metrological accuracy and precision. The microcalorimeter sensors take advantage of superconducting materials, cryogenic (sub-Kelvin) temperatures, and quantum mechanical effects. They achieve energy-resolving power for individual x-ray photons far greater than that offered by traditional calorimeters, opening many new lines of inquiry. These devices, fabricated in NIST’s state-of-the-art clean room, consist of superconducting transition-edge sensors on micromachined structures. They are read out using unique high-speed, low-noise SQUID preamplifier systems also designed and fabricated here. The successful candidate will use these complex systems to perform x-ray spectral measurements of unprecedented quality. The candidate will focus primarily on characterizing the x-ray emission spectra of elements used in the semiconductor industry, especially emission at longer wavelengths and lower photon energies (3 keV and below) where standard reference data do not yet exist. The work will require precision measurement with research-grade (non-commercial) sensors operated at cryogenic temperatures. It will involve calibration of the measured energy scale by use of a pulsed optical-band laser or other means, and extreme control over and understanding of systematic uncertainties and measurement noise. It will require computer-based analysis of large data sets. The Quantum Calorimeters Group as a whole develops microcalorimeter spectrometers for x rays and gamma rays to perform a wide range of research, including applications in: analysis of materials and catalysts; nuclear non-proliferation and nuclear reactor optimization; x-ray nano-tomography; fundamental nuclear and particle physics; and high-energy astrophysics. Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to: Operate arrays of custom, non-commercial cryogenic sensors, including superconducting transition-edge sensors, along with readout systems for such arrays. Operate and optimize microcalorimeter spectrometers built from cryogenic sensor arrays, using them in measurement applications in the basic and applied sciences. Metrologically characterize the x-ray emission spectra of several chemical elements, especially those used in the semiconductor industry. Plan and undertake additional x-ray precision measurements of industrial interest, such as x-ray transmission through relevant materials. Characterize the performance of new cryogenic x-ray sensor technologies developed at NIST. Develop new applications for cryogenic sensors and pursue both internal and external funding. Work with other NIST scientists on the operation and application of cryogenic sensor instruments. Communicate work status to team members and supervisors regularly. Disseminate research results through publications and presentations. Qualifications A doctoral degree in Physics, Applied Physics, Astrophysics, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. Previous experience with precision measurements in a laboratory setting. Prefer experience with any or all of: spectroscopic x-ray measurements; cryogenic measurements; use of computer-controlled instrumentation; measurements with novel sensors. Ability to develop data analysis procedures and software. Ability to work with peers in a collaborative environment. Strong oral and written communication skills. Salary Rate and Benefits $73,000 - $83,000 Mines takes into consideration a combination of candidate’s education, training and experience as well as the position’s scope and complexity, the discretion and latitude required in the role, work location, and external market and internal value when determining a salary level for potential new employees. Colorado School of Mines offers a robust portfolio of benefits for all employees. For this role, that includes: A variety of rich health and dental offerings Generous sick/vacation time: 13 paid holidays per year – including a week-long winter break for entire campus. Fully vested retirement plan on first day of employment, with generous employer contribution Tuition benefits (6 credits per year for employees, 50 percent discount for dependents) Free RTD Ecopass All Mines employees also have access to discount programs through the State of Colorado and free tickets for Mines Athletics home games, as well as access to the on-campus Recreation Center (fitness classes and training, swimming pool and more), equipment rentals through the Outdoor Rec Center, the Colorado State Employee Assistance Program (CSEAP), and backup child and elder care. Coming soon is an on-campus daycare center. For more information about benefits at Mines, go to mines.edu/human-resources/benefits. How to Apply Applicants must: Complete an online application (personal information, demographic information, veteran status) Upload a resume or CV Upload a cover letter Contact Kathleen Feighny in HR at kfeighny@mines.edu with any questions. Mines welcomes everyone to our team; in your application, please feel free to note which pronouns you use (For example - she/her/hers, he/him/his, they/them/theirs, etc). If you need reasonable accommodation at any point in the application or interview process, please let us know. Successful completion of a background investigation is required for this position. This posting may be used to fill multiple openings. Equal Opportunity Colorado School of Mines is committed to equal opportunity for all persons. Mines does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, gender (including gender identity and gender expression), ancestry, creed, marital status, race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status or current military service. Further, Mines does not retaliate against community members for filing complaints regarding or implicating any of these protected statuses. Mines’ commitment to nondiscrimination, affirmative action, equal opportunity and equal access is reflected in the administration of its policies, procedures, programs and activities and in its efforts to achieve a diverse student body and workforce. Through its policies, procedures and resources, Mines complies with federal law, Colorado state law, administrative regulations, executive orders and other legal requirements to prevent discrimination (including harassment or retaliation) within the Mines campus community and to address potential allegations of inequity or concerns for safety. Colorado's premier engineering and applied science university for 150 years and counting We are pleased that you have interest in exploring career opportunities at Mines. Founded in 1874, Mines has an international reputation for excellence in engineering and applied sciences. We are committed to serving the people of Colorado, our nation and the global community in the development and stewardship of the Earth’s resources. WHY CHOOSE MINES? Mines is consistently ranked among the top engineering colleges in the United States and ranks number one as the best public school in the state for best value colleges. Mines is located in the heart of Golden, Colorado, a western suburb of Denver. The campus location offers a small-town ambiance with close proximity to all that the Denver metropolitan area has to offer with an abundance of cultural events, museums, theaters and sporting venues. An arid climate and an average 300 days of sunshine per year make the area an ideal place to live, work and play. We seek individuals who value a diverse and inclusive community – offering different perspectives, experiences, and cultures that enrich the educational and work experience. Come explore the possibilities!
