Postdoctoral Researcher

NOTE: Please email me your full resume directly. Postdoctoral Research Associate Scanning Probe Microscopy & Functional Nanoscale Imaging SPID Facility — NUANCE Center | Northwestern University The Scanned Probe Imaging and Development (SPID) facility, part of Northwestern University's Atomic and Nanoscale Characterization Experimental Center (NUANCE), is seeking an exceptional postdoctoral researcher with deep, hands-on expertise in scanning probe microscopy (SPM) and functional nanoscale imaging. This position is exclusive to candidates with demonstrated command of quantitative and qualitative SPM techniques — this is a hands-on instrumentation and characterization role, not a general materials-science or computational position. SPID bridges hard nanostructures, soft and biological materials, and quantitative mechanical and electrical nanoscale analysis, operating in close partnership with Bruker's Metrology Surface Division and a global network of instrumentation collaborators. The successful candidate will work directly with SPID's advanced SPM platforms to support cutting-edge research, instrument development, and user training within a highly active, multidisciplinary shared facility. Research Focus and Responsibilities Quantitative and Functional SPM Characterization Perform and advance nanomechanical mapping via PeakForce Quantitative Nanomechanical Mapping (PF-QNM), force-volume spectroscopy, and AFM-based nanoindentation Nanopatterning and Biomaterials Applications Execute Dip-Pen Nanolithography (DPN) and related nanopatterning workflows for biomaterials and soft-matter systems Instrumentation Development and Facility Support Collaborate with SPID/NUANCE staff and Bruker partners on instrument development, calibration, and deployment of new SPM capabilities Required Qualifications PhD in Materials Science, Applied Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Chemistry, Bioengineering, or a closely related field (completed within the past five years) Demonstrated, hands-on expertise in scanning probe microscopy — direct experience operating AFM and performing quantitative nanomechanical and/or functional (electrical, magnetic, or chemical) imaging modes is essential Practical experience with nanoindentation and/or force-spectroscopy techniques Strong record of peer-reviewed publications built on SPM-based characterization Ability to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot advanced SPM instrumentation independently Excellent communication skills and willingness to train and support facility users Preferred Qualifications Experience with Bruker/Veeco SPM platforms (e.g., Dimension Icon, FastScan, Dimension IconIR) Background in nanopatterning techniques such as Dip-Pen Nanolithography Experience applying SPM to biomaterials, cell mechanics, or soft-matter systems Prior experience in a shared/core user facility, including user training or instrument support roles Familiarity with instrument-control or data-analysis programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB) is a plus but not a substitute for SPM expertise Initial appointment: 2 years, with possibility of extension based on performance and mutual agreement Candidates must have authorization to work in the United States at the time of appointment; this position is not applicable to foreign students #J-18808-Ljbffr