Optical Detection of Explosives and Other Illicit Chemicals
This research uses infrared lasers and detectors to remotely identify explosives, chemical weapons, and drugs for defense and security purposes.
This grant is no longer accepting proposals
NRC Research Associateship Programs has archived this opportunity.
Funder: NRC Research Associateship Programs
Due Dates: May 1, 2025 | August 1, 2025 | November 1, 2025 | February 1, 2026
Funding Amounts: $99,200 stipend plus $3,000 travel allowance; relocation assistance available for those living >50 miles from host lab. Typical award duration 2-3 years.
Summary: Postdoctoral fellowship at Naval Research Laboratory focusing on infrared optical spectroscopic methods for remote detection of explosives, chemical warfare agents, and illicit drugs.
Key Information: Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents; requires Ph.D. earned within last 5 years; strong background in infrared spectroscopy, optics, and chemometric analysis recommended.
Description
This postdoctoral research opportunity at the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) supports advanced work on non-contact, stand-off detection of explosives and other illicit chemicals such as chemical warfare agents and drugs of abuse. The research is motivated by Defense and Homeland Security needs.
The project emphasizes optical spectroscopic approaches primarily using infrared (IR) wavelengths for both excitation and signal collection. Excitation sources include a suite of infrared lasers such as fixed and tunable quantum cascade lasers (QCL), optical parametric oscillators (OPO), and CO2 lasers. Detection methods involve IR focal plane arrays (FPA) for imaging, cooled IR detectors for signal collection, and commercial vapor-based detection systems for verification.
Success in this research requires expertise in infrared spectroscopy, optical engineering, and chemometric analysis of spectral data. The work aims to develop and improve remote sensing technologies for identifying hazardous substances from a distance, enhancing security and defense capabilities.
