NIST Method Development and Best Practices for Atomic Clock Metrology

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Description

This fellowship opportunity at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) focuses on advancing the analysis of atomic clock data, particularly optical atomic clocks that have demonstrated frequency ratio measurements with unprecedented 18-digit accuracy. These clocks, while highly precise, suffer from increased downtime compared to traditional microwave clocks, resulting in "gappy" data that challenge existing statistical models.

The project aims to investigate and improve a multitaper spectral analysis approach for frequency stability analysis of clock data, a methodology not revisited in decades. The goal is to develop a suite of robust statistical tools that enable clock scientists to properly analyze data with gaps, thereby supporting the future redefinition of the second and enhancing applications such as GPS accuracy and dark matter detection. Comprehensive documentation will also be produced to facilitate adoption by the broader scientific community.

Due Dates

• February 1, 2025 (5 PM ET)
• May 1, 2025 (5 PM ET)
• August 1, 2025 (5 PM ET)
• November 1, 2025 (5 PM ET)

Note: If a deadline falls on a weekend or federal holiday, it is moved to the next business day.

Funding Amount

• Base stipend: $82,764 per year
• Travel allowance: $3,000 annually
• Appointment duration: Typically 2 years

Eligibility

• Citizenship: Open to U.S. citizens only
• Education: Applicants must have earned a Ph.D., Sc.D., M.D., D.V.M., or equivalent research doctorate before beginning tenure
• Experience: Postdoctoral applicants must have held their doctorate for less than five years as of the application deadline
• Prior affiliation: Applicants with current or recent prior affiliation with NIST (e.g., employment or previous NRC fellowship) may be ineligible
• Applicants must contact the NIST Research Adviser before applying

Application Process

Steps to Apply

1. Review eligibility criteria on the NRC RAP website.
2. Identify this Research Opportunity (NIST Method Development and Best Practices for Atomic Clock Metrology).
3. Contact the Research Adviser, Amanda Allen Koepke (aak3@nist.gov), to discuss the research project and funding availability.
4. Prepare application materials including:
   • Research proposal (max 10 pages)
   • Previous and current research description
   • List of publications and presentations
   • Letters of recommendation (minimum 3, including dissertation adviser)
5. Register and submit your application via the NRC RAP online portal.
6. Ensure all letters of recommendation are submitted by the deadline.

Application Materials

• Profile information including education history and transcripts (postdocs only)
• Research proposal detailing problem statement, background, methodology, expected results, and significance
• Letters of recommendation uploaded by referees through the online system
• Contact information for references and Research Adviser

Review and Selection

• Applications are reviewed by expert panels in relevant scientific disciplines.
• Each application is scored on a 100-point scale; scores above 70 are recommended for award.
• Selection is competitive and based on scientific merit, feasibility, and relevance to NIST’s mission.

Additional Information

• Health insurance enrollment is required during tenure; group plans are available.
• Relocation assistance is provided for awardees moving more than 50 miles.
• Annual travel allowance supports conference attendance and related activities.
• Applicants with prior NRC Research Associateships must have a two-year gap before reapplying.
• Feedback on application reviews is provided approximately one week after panel decisions.

External Links

• NRC Research Associateship Programs Home
• NIST Research Opportunity Details
• NRC RAP Applicant Guide (PDF)
• Visa Options for International Associates (PDF)

Contact Information