USDA-NIFA Post Doctoral Researcher

JOB PURPOSE:
We seek a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to conduct cutting-edge research in the
area of quantum sensing at the intersection of quantum physics, electrical engineering,
materials science, chemistry, and advanced measurement science. The successful candidate will
contribute to the development and application of quantum-enabled sensors with
unprecedented sensitivity for food security applications, as well as other research,
administrative, and outreach duties assigned by the PI. The postdoctoral researcher will work
closely with faculty, undergraduate students, graduate students, and interdisciplinary
collaborators across physics, engineering, and applied sciences, and will have opportunities to
publish in high-impact journals and present results at international conferences.
This position description indicates in general the nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills,
and abilities. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities,
duties, or responsibilities required or assigned to this position.

JOB DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Areas of interest include, but are not limited to:
1. Electrochemical analysis
2. Microfabrication and/or Nanofabrication
3. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and Patterning
4. Chemical and/or Biosensors Development: Design, Fabrication, and Testing
5. Metrology at Micro-and Nanoscale
6. Materials Characterization
7. Cryogenic or room-temperature quantum sensor platforms
8. Integration of Micro/Nanosensors with Electronics

Key Responsibilities
1. Conduct independent and collaborative research in chemical sensing

2. Design, build, and characterize an experimental sensor platform and develop
functionalization schemes for detecting analytes
3. Analyze experimental data and develop electronics/signal processing techniques

4. Prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals and conference proceedings
5. Contribute to grant proposals
6. Present research findings at group meetings, workshops, and conferences

7. Travel to other US institutions to pursue collaborative research activities
8. Mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers as appropriate
9. Contribute to laboratory management and experimental best practices
10. Undergo training in research integrity and responsible conduct of research

SUPERVISION RESPONSIBILITIES:
 N/A

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS:
1. Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering,
Materials Science, or a closely related field (completed by start date)
2. Strong background and rigor in micro-and nano device fabrication
3. Demonstrated research productivity (peer-reviewed publications)
4. Experience with at least one of the following:
     a.Solid-state quantum systems
     b. Precision measurement or sensing techniques
     c. Nanofabrication or device characterization
     d. Integration of Sensors with Electronics
     e. Excellent written and verbal communication skills

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS:
1. Experience in advanced AFM and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) operations
2. Grant writing experience and knowledge about US Federal Agency solicitations
3. Familiarity with control systems, FPGA/DAQ hardware, or embedded systems
4. Experience working in interdisciplinary research teams
5. Interest in translational or application-driven quantum technologies

The Navajo Nation Preference in Employment Act applies to all hiring, promotions, or
transfers of individuals into this position.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
1. Knowledge of applicable federal, state, county and local laws, regulations, and
requirements.
2. Knowledge of field of study.
3. Knowledge of techniques and practices in field.
4. Knowledge of University policies and procedures.
5. Knowledge of instructional policies and procedures.
6. Skilled in operating computers and office machines.

7. Ability to write reports and business correspondence.
8. Ability to organize and express ideas, directions, and data in a logical
sequence to describe a process or explain procedures such as how to
perform a task to students.
9. Ability to present materials effectively to individual students or groups.
10. Ability to manage interpersonal conflict situations requiring tact, diplomacy and
discretion.
11. Ability to work independently and meet strict timelines.
12. Ability to oversee the work of students.
13. Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with the
individuals of varying social and cultural backgrounds.
14. Ability to communicate effectively in the Navajo and English language.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
1. Required to sit for up to 8 hours per day.
2. Ability to stand, walk, stoop, kneel or crouch while performing duties.
3. Ability to use hands to finger, handle, or feel.
4. Ability to lift, push, or pull upwards of 25 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:
1. Work is generally performed in the lab, office, and a field setting.
2. Tight time constraints and multiple demands are common.
3. Evening and/or weekend work may be required. Extended hours and irregular shifts
may be required.