NRL Atomic-scale Patterning of Materials
NRL is using advanced electron microscopy to manipulate materials at the atomic level for nanoelectronics and quantum tech, focusing on defects and phase changes.
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 (Next deadline)
Funding Amounts: $99,200 stipend plus $3,000 travel allowance; relocation and health insurance benefits available.
Summary: Postdoctoral fellowship to conduct atomic-scale materials research using advanced aberration-corrected STEM at the Naval Research Laboratory for nanoelectronics and quantum technology applications.
Key Information: Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents; requires Ph.D. earned within 5 years; application includes contacting research adviser prior to applying.
Description
This fellowship opportunity supports postdoctoral research at the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) focused on atomic-scale patterning of materials using aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). The research aims to harness electron beam–matter interactions to engineer nanoscale and sub-nanoscale features for nanoelectronic devices and scalable quantum technologies.
Example research projects include:
- Characterization and manipulation of single-atom defects in diamond.
- Electron-beam-induced 2H-to-1T phase transformations in transition metal dichalcogenides.
Research will be conducted using NRL’s state-of-the-art facilities, including:
- Nion UltraSTEM-200X aberration-corrected STEM with electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) and direct-electron detection.
- Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS).
- In situ biasing and electrochemical holders.
- Supporting instruments such as FEI Helios G3 FIB-SEM, Cameca atom probe, and atomic layer deposition (ALD) systems.
This program offers a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of nanoscale analytical transmission electron microscopy and materials engineering.
