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Postdoctoral Associate or Research Associate
University of Colorado Boulder
Boulder, CO
Analyst, Information Technology, Science / R&D / Research
Summary
Job Summary
The Postdoctoral Associate/Research Associate will work on large signal microwave-frequency electromagnetic measurements and modeling to evaluate the response of advanced materials including magnetic composites Measurements include oscilloscope and vector-network analyzer characterization of advanced materials and devices, including under high-power conditions. Connecting measurements to large-signal models of materials and devices is a key element.
This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology's (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP). NIST recognizes that its research staff may want to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest and, therefore, requires those institutions to be recipients of a PREP award. The PREP program involves staff from a wide range of backgrounds conducting scientific research across various fields. Individuals in this position will perform technical work supporting the collaboration's scientific research.
CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Who We Are
PREP is a special partnership between the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the University of Colorado Boulder. PREP provides research opportunities to CU undergraduate and graduate students, as well as researchers with a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in NIST labs to gain research experience alongside NIST scientists.
The particular group that needs a researcher is the Guided Wave Electromagnetics Group at NIST.
Responsibilities
What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be
This position requires the successful completion of an NAIS agreement and federal security clearance as mandated by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Employment is contingent upon approval of these requirements as determined by NIST.
Anticipated start date is August 21, 2026. Anticipated end date is August 21, 2027.
Privacy Act Statement
Authority: 15 U.S.C.
PREP is a 5-year cooperative agreement between NIST laboratories and participating PREP Universities to establish a collaborative research relationship between NIST and U.S. institutions of higher education in the following disciplines including (but may not be limited to) biochemistry, biological sciences, chemistry, computer science, engineering, electronics, materials science, mathematics, nanoscale science, neutron science, physical science, physics, and statistics. This collection of information is needed to facilitate the administrative functions of the PREP Program.
Routine Uses: NIST will use the information collected to perform the requisite reviews of the applications to determine eligibility, and to meet programmatic requirements. Disclosure of this information is also subject to all the published routine uses as identified in the Privacy Act System of Records Notices: NIST-1: NIST Associates.
Disclosure: Furnishing this information is voluntary. When you submit the form, you are indicating your voluntary consent for NIST to use of the information you submit for the purpose stated. By applying to a CHIPS-funded PREP opportunity, you also acknowledge that participation in the project requires signing a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) prior to beginning any work.
What We Can Offer
At the University of Colorado Boulder , we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County’s largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.
Be Statements
Be ambitious. Be pioneering. Be Boulder.
What We Require
To Apply, Please Submit The Following Materials
During the application process you will need to enter contact information for a reference. We will request the letter of recommendation immediately following your application.
Review of applications will begin immediately and remain open until May 27, 2026.
Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs.
In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.
Job Summary
The Postdoctoral Associate/Research Associate will work on large signal microwave-frequency electromagnetic measurements and modeling to evaluate the response of advanced materials including magnetic composites Measurements include oscilloscope and vector-network analyzer characterization of advanced materials and devices, including under high-power conditions. Connecting measurements to large-signal models of materials and devices is a key element.
This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology's (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP). NIST recognizes that its research staff may want to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest and, therefore, requires those institutions to be recipients of a PREP award. The PREP program involves staff from a wide range of backgrounds conducting scientific research across various fields. Individuals in this position will perform technical work supporting the collaboration's scientific research.
CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Who We Are
PREP is a special partnership between the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the University of Colorado Boulder. PREP provides research opportunities to CU undergraduate and graduate students, as well as researchers with a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in NIST labs to gain research experience alongside NIST scientists.
The particular group that needs a researcher is the Guided Wave Electromagnetics Group at NIST.
Responsibilities
What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be
- Perform microwave-frequency measurements using tools including a vector network analyzer and/or oscilloscope coupled with a high-power modulated signal source.
- Perform near-field and/or thermal imaging measurements with experimental setups that include scanning capabilities.
- Perform data analysis, uncertainty analysis, and modeling of material-loaded transmission lines and bulk fixtures.
This position requires the successful completion of an NAIS agreement and federal security clearance as mandated by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Employment is contingent upon approval of these requirements as determined by NIST.
Anticipated start date is August 21, 2026. Anticipated end date is August 21, 2027.
Privacy Act Statement
Authority: 15 U.S.C.
- 278g-1(e)(1) and (e)(3) and 15 U.S.C.
- 272(b) and (c)
PREP is a 5-year cooperative agreement between NIST laboratories and participating PREP Universities to establish a collaborative research relationship between NIST and U.S. institutions of higher education in the following disciplines including (but may not be limited to) biochemistry, biological sciences, chemistry, computer science, engineering, electronics, materials science, mathematics, nanoscale science, neutron science, physical science, physics, and statistics. This collection of information is needed to facilitate the administrative functions of the PREP Program.
Routine Uses: NIST will use the information collected to perform the requisite reviews of the applications to determine eligibility, and to meet programmatic requirements. Disclosure of this information is also subject to all the published routine uses as identified in the Privacy Act System of Records Notices: NIST-1: NIST Associates.
Disclosure: Furnishing this information is voluntary. When you submit the form, you are indicating your voluntary consent for NIST to use of the information you submit for the purpose stated. By applying to a CHIPS-funded PREP opportunity, you also acknowledge that participation in the project requires signing a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) prior to beginning any work.
What We Can Offer
- The salary range for the full-time Postdoctoral Associate position is $74,000 - $108,000 annually.
- The salary range for the full-time Research Associate position is $78,000 - $135,000 annually.
At the University of Colorado Boulder , we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County’s largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.
Be Statements
Be ambitious. Be pioneering. Be Boulder.
What We Require
- Postdoctoral Associate:PhD in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, or related field with 0 – 4 years of post-doctoral degree experience.
- Research Associate:PhD in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, or related field with 5+ years of post-doctoral degree experience.
- Experience with electromagnetic modeling, including finite element and/or circuit modeling.
- Proficiency with scripting (ex. read files, perform calculations, and plot results) in Python, Matlab, or another scientific programming language.
- Proficiency with the mathematical techniques used in physical sciences and engineering, especially linear algebra, differential equations, and statistics.
- Proficiency with the physical principles of electromagnetism, circuits, heat transport.
- Aptitude for laboratory work, particularly assembling instruments and performing electrical or electromagnetic measurements. This aptitude could be demonstrated through research experience, senior projects, advanced laboratory courses, or hobbies.
To Apply, Please Submit The Following Materials
- Resume or CV
- Cover letter addressed to the Search Committee briefly describing your qualifications, professional goals, and specific interest in this position.
During the application process you will need to enter contact information for a reference. We will request the letter of recommendation immediately following your application.
Review of applications will begin immediately and remain open until May 27, 2026.
Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs.
In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.