Postdoctoral Fellow (PREP0004192)

Overview The PREP Research Associate position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP). The role supports collaboration with academic institutions to conduct scientific research across various fields. Research Title Infrared Microscopy for Microplastics Characterization (U.S. Citizens preferred) The work will entail The Material Measurement Laboratory of NIST seeks an individual to advance a novel quantum cascade laser (QCL) infrared microscopy technique for high‑throughput measurement of size distribution and chemical identification of microplastic samples. The work involves addressing measurement challenges due to strong IR absorption by water and scattering from microplastics smaller than 10 µm. The outputs aim to improve measurement assurance and reproducibility in microplastics characterization. Key responsibilities Advance the instrumentation for high‑throughput QCL‑IR microscopy Collect and analyze IR hyperspectral images of microplastics Discuss progress and results with NIST staff Present results at internal meetings, and occasionally with external stakeholders Write papers based on method advancements and datasets collected Qualifications Ph.D. degree in Chemistry, Physics, Polymer Physics, or a related field At least 2 years of experience with IR microscopy Ability to analyze vibrational spectral data Strong oral and written communication skills Equal Opportunity Employer NIST is an equal‑opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of sex, gender, marital status, pregnancy, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristic. EEO is the Law For more information on your rights under the Equal Employment Opportunity Act, please visit the EEOC website. #J-18808-Ljbffr The American Ceramic Society