Ultrafast Studies of Charge Transfer Plasmonics
This project studies how ultrafast lasers can weld nanoparticles to control their optical properties for new tech, focusing on the nanojunctions formed.
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 (RAP opportunity application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $99,200 stipend plus $3,000 travel allowance; typical postdoctoral fellowship duration 2-3 years
Summary: Postdoctoral fellowship to conduct ultrafast laser studies on charge transfer plasmonic nanostructures at the Naval Research Laboratory, focusing on controlling nanojunction formation and optical properties.
Key Information: Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents with a Ph.D. earned within the last 5 years; expertise in ultrafast spectroscopies required.
Description
This postdoctoral research opportunity at the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) focuses on ultrafast studies of charge transfer plasmonics. The project aims to control the resonance wavelength in plasmonic nanostructures by connecting two plasmonic nanoparticles with a thin metallic bridge, forming a metamolecule. By precisely controlling interparticle charge transfer through the nanojunction's size, shape, and material, researchers can tailor the absorption peak wavelength to arbitrary values, enabling disruptive optical technologies.
The research involves non-thermal welding of plasmonic nanoparticles into discrete morphologies interconnected by metallic nanojunctions using molecular assembly and femtosecond laser pulses. Understanding and controlling the formation and morphology of these nanojunctions during the femtosecond-scale welding process is critical for developing engineered materials with tunable optical properties.
Applicants should have demonstrated expertise in ultrafast spectroscopies and a strong background in physics, chemistry, materials science, or engineering related to plasmonics and nanostructures.
