Next-generation Assured Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) and Radio Frequency (RF) Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) Research

About the role

This opportunity is available at the U.S. Army DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory located at Adelphi, MD. The Advanced Photonics, Electronics & Quantum Sciences (APEQS) is seeking candidates with a strong interest in future electronics technologies who have recently studied or are currently studying engineering or scientific disciplines. This research seeks to advance next-generation Assured Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) and Radio Frequency (RF) systems and capabilities through the research, development, and analysis of specialized Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) technologies.

Responsibilities

• Develop cutting-edge MEMS gyroscopes, accelerometers, and novel supporting electronics; alongside advanced MEMS RF resonators, filters, tunable components, and ultra-sensitive sensors.
• Contribute to the establishment of the critical building blocks necessary for creating compact, power-efficient, and high-performance electronic systems.
• Write and submit a detailed Research Proposal that relates to a specific opportunity at ARL, clearly outlining the objective, direction, and expected outcome of the research.
• Collaborate with ARL advisors and other researchers to refine and validate research findings.
• Participate in laboratory work, including hands-on experiments and data analysis.

Requirements

• Experience with lab work in either a work or school setting.
• Good written and oral communication skills.
• Personal initiative.
• U.S. Citizen.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or Applied Physics.
• Foundational coursework in calculus, university physics, circuit theory, and mechanics.
• Advanced coursework in microelectronics or device physics.
• Technical proficiency in 3D CAD modeling, FEA simulation (such as COMSOL or ANSYS), and data analysis using Python or MATLAB.
• Prior hands-on experience with standard electrical characterization equipment.
• Exposure to cleanroom microfabrication processes or materials metrology (e.g., SEM, AFM).
• A strong capability for rigorous laboratory documentation and technical communication.

Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Knowledge of relevant software tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python).

Benefits

No specific benefits are listed for this opportunity.

Pay

The pay details are not specified in the job posting.

Schedule

The schedule details are not specified in the job posting.

Contact

For questions about this opportunity, please email ARLFellowship@orau.org.

About ARL

The Army Research Laboratory (ARL) is part of the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (CCDC) Army Research Laboratory (ARL). ARL’s Army Research Directorate (ARD) focuses on exploiting concept development, discovery, technology development, and transition of the most promising disruptive science and technology to deliver to the Army fundamentally advantageous science-based capabilities through laboratory’s 11 research competencies. This intramural research directorate also manages the laboratory’s essential research programs, which are flagship research efforts focused on delivering defined outcomes.

About APEQS

APEQS focuses on Materials (and related manufacturing methods) and devices intended for achieving photonic, electronic, and quantum-based effects.

About RAP

The Army Research Laboratory Research Associateship Program (ARL-RAP) is designed to significantly increase the involvement of creative and highly trained scientists and engineers from academia and industry in scientific and technical areas of interest and relevance to the Army. Scientists and Engineers at the CCDC Army Research Laboratory (ARL) help shape and execute the Army's program for meeting the challenge of developing technologies that will support Army forces in meeting future operational needs by pursuing scientific research and technological developments in diverse fields such as: applied mathematics, atmospheric characterization, simulation and human modeling, digital/optical signal processing, nanotechnology, material science and technology, multifunctional technology, combustion processes, propulsion and flight physics, communication and networking, and computational and information sciences.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The U.S. Army DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer.