NIST Synchrotron Characterization of Advanced Manufacturing Processes
NIST seeks a postdoc to use synchrotron X-rays to study advanced manufacturing of metals/ceramics, linking processing to microstructure and modeling for better quality.
This grant is no longer accepting proposals
NRC Research Associateship Programs has archived this opportunity.
Funder: NRC Research Associateship Programs
Due Dates: February 1, 2025 | May 1, 2025 | August 1, 2025 | November 1, 2025
Funding Amounts: $82,764 stipend plus $3,000 travel allowance; typical appointment duration 2 years.
Summary: Postdoctoral fellowship at NIST to use high-energy synchrotron X-ray techniques for studying advanced manufacturing processes of metals and ceramics, linking microstructure evolution to processing and modeling.
Key Information: Open to U.S. citizens with a recent doctoral degree; requires contacting a NIST research adviser prior to application; applications reviewed in February and August cycles.
Description
This postdoctoral research opportunity at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) focuses on applying state-of-the-art synchrotron X-ray characterization techniques to understand and optimize advanced manufacturing processes, particularly for dense engineering materials such as metals and ceramics. Advanced manufacturing technologies enable the production of complex 3D structures from digital designs but involve severe processing conditions that pose technical challenges.
High-energy synchrotron X-rays provide unique capabilities including deep penetration, high time resolution, and spatial resolution, allowing both in-situ and ex-situ analysis of microstructural evolution and phase transformations during manufacturing and post-processing. For example, real-time monitoring of grain growth, porosity, and defect formation in ceramics can elucidate the relationships between processing parameters, microstructure, and final material properties. This knowledge aims to improve the quality, performance, and application range of advanced manufactured components.
The research will build on existing expertise at NIST’s Materials Measurement Science Division, involving high-energy synchrotron X-ray scattering, diffraction, and imaging. Structural data obtained will be used to validate and corroborate predictive modeling efforts. The project encourages collaboration both internally and externally, leveraging a comprehensive suite of material characterization and modeling tools at the forefront of advanced manufacturing science.
Keywords
Advanced manufacturing, synchrotron, X-ray, microstructure, in situ characterization, materials processing, metals, ceramics, modeling.
