CHIPS Research Scientist

NIST's Quantum Calorimeters Group seeks a physicist to lead development of a novel x-ray microscope for 3D circuit imaging. You will integrate hardware, design control algorithms, and analyze data for tomographic reconstruction. Duties include quantifying performance via 2D/3D imaging and collaborating with CHIPS teams to publish results. This notice is issued under direct-hire authority to recruit new talent to occupations for which NIST has a severe shortage of candidates.

Duties

NIST's Physical Measurement Laboratory (PML) sets the definitive U.S. standards for nearly every kind of measurement employed in commerce and research, sometimes across more than 20 orders of magnitude. This position is in PML's Quantum Sensors Division, whose mission is to build the metrological foundation for emerging electronic, magnetic, and photonic technologies. They achieve this by developing high-precision measurement devices, systems, standards, and methodologies and applying them to address national needs. If you are hired as a CHIPS Research Scientist for this division, you will: Integrate hardware and design control algorithms for a novel x-ray microscope specialized in nanoscale 3D circuit imaging. Oversee x-ray and electron data analysis, providing critical inputs for tomographic reconstruction algorithms. Collect and analyze diagnostic data to quantify performance, troubleshoot components, and ensure operational precision. Partner with CHIPS metrology teams and external stakeholders to present findings and publish high-impact results.

Qualifications

Basic Requirements: Degree: physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics; OR Combination of education and experience - courses equivalent to a major in physics totaling at least 24 semester hours, plus appropriate experience or additional education. In either 1 or 2 above, the courses must have included: a fundamental course in general physics, and, in addition, courses in any two of the following: electricity and magnetism heat light mechanics modern physics sound In addition to the basic requirements, you must also meet one of the following requirements: 1. One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least GS-9 (ZP-II at NIST). Specialized experience is defined as: Experience operating complex scientific equipment, particularly microscopy instrumentation and x-ray spectroscopy equipment. Experience in scientific programming, preferably in Python. Experience with semiconductor device characterization. OR 2. Master's or equivalent graduate degree OR 3. A combination of graduate education and specialized experience. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. The qualification requirements in this vacancy announcement are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook. If requesting reconsideration of your qualification determination, please refer to the following site: Applicant Reconsideration