Postdoctoral Research Associate – Photon and Electron-Driven Chemistry for EUV Lithography

Brookhaven National Laboratory’s Chemistry Division is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to perform fundamental research into photon- and electron-driven chemistry relevant to extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography. The position is in the Electron- and Photo-Induced Processes Group and involves collaboration with the Center for Functional Nanomaterials (CFN) and use of the National Synchrotron Light Source II (NSLS-II).

About the role

The successful candidate will investigate chemical transformations driven by EUV photons and high-energy electrons to better understand the fundamental processes relevant to modern and future photolithography for microelectronics. Research will primarily involve transient absorption spectroscopy coupled with pulse radiolysis at the Chemistry Division’s 9 MeV Laser Electron Accelerator Facility (LEAF) to rapidly generate ionizations and excited states and follow subsequent steps using UV/Vis and mid-IR detection. The project will also use BNL’s National Synchrotron Light Source II (NSLS-II) to generate photons and electrons with energies relevant to EUV lithography. Work will be under the supervision of Dr. Matthew Bird, in collaboration with Dr. David Grills (Chemistry), Dr. Chang-Yong Nam (CFN), and Dr. Jerzy Sadowski (CFN).

Responsibilities

• Planning experiments, preparing samples, and conducting experiments at LEAF.
• Data analysis (e.g., fitting transient absorption data, making plots of spectra).
• Writing papers and presenting work at seminars and conferences.

Requirements

• PhD in physical chemistry or a related field.
• Experience in photochemistry, radiation chemistry, or EUV lithography.
• Experience using pulse radiolysis, optical transient absorption, or related spectroscopic methods.
• Proficiency in solution preparation, simple purification, characterization (glovebox, Schlenk line, NMR, etc.).
• Demonstrated commitment to working safely, acting ethically, and taking personal accountability for operational excellence.

Other Information

This position is on-site in Upton, NY. Appointment will be for two years with an opportunity for renewal based on performance and continued funding. After obtaining a PhD, eligible candidates may not exceed a combined total of 5 years of relevant postdoctoral and/or R&D work experience, excluding time associated with family planning, military service, illness, or other life-changing events. Candidates must have received a Ph.D. by the commencement of employment.

Brookhaven National Laboratory requires all non-badged personnel, including visitors, to produce REAL-ID or REAL-ID compliant documentation for federal site access. Additionally, employees must obtain and maintain a DOE Uncleared Personal Identity Verification (UPIV) credential as a condition of employment.

Pay

The full salary range for this position is $82,000–$85,000 per year. Salary placement will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualifications, education, and experience, considered with the internal peer group.

Benefits

Brookhaven National Laboratory offers a comprehensive employee benefits program. Review more information at BNL | Benefits Program.