Funder: NRC Research Associateship Programs
Due Dates: May 1, 2025 (Application Deadline)
Funding Amounts: $80,000 base stipend plus travel allowance; postdoctoral supplements based on experience; typical award duration 2-3 years.
Summary: Supports postdoctoral research on synthesis of low-valent aluminum and non-noble transition metal clusters with novel properties at Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division.
Key Information: Open to U.S. citizens with a Ph.D. earned within the last 5 years; requires contacting Research Adviser prior to applying; relocation and health insurance benefits included.
This fellowship opportunity supports postdoctoral research focused on the synthesis of low-valent metal clusters using solution methods. The research targets molecular clusters containing multiple core metal atoms, often called metalloid clusters or monolayer-protected clusters. These clusters may represent stabilized reactive metal nanoparticles or species that bridge metal complexes and bulk metals, potentially exhibiting unusual electronic, optical, and magnetic properties.
The emphasis is on synthesizing clusters containing aluminum and/or non-noble transition metals. Metalloid clusters are rare for aluminum and appear to be unknown for non-noble transition metals. Existing aluminum metalloid clusters (e.g., Al50Cp*12, Al77(N(SiMe3)2)20 2-) have been prepared through complex high-temperature processes involving aluminum monohalide species. Developing practical solution-based synthesis methods for these clusters would open new frontiers in chemistry and materials science.
The research is conducted at the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD) in China Lake, CA, within the Chemistry Division.
| Contact Person | Phone | Affiliation | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Benjamin G. Harvey | benjamin.g.harvey.civ@us.navy.mil | 760-939-0247 | Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division |
| Program Office | Phone | Website | |
|---|---|---|---|
| NRC RAP Fellowships Office | rap@nas.edu | 202-334-2760 | NRC RAP Contact |