Job Details
This postdoctoral role focuses on advancing next-generation ultraviolet detector technologies for future NASA missions. The position centers on molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) for materials growth, band-structure engineering, and interface optimization to enable high-performance, space-ready photodetectors.
The researcher will design and refine wafer-scale fabrication processes, develop new epitaxial passivation strategies, and perform materials and device characterization using techniques such as AFM, SEM, TEM, XRD, and photodetector performance testing. A key element of the work is establishing a tight feedback loop between detector behavior and fabrication process improvements.
This effort directly supports technology maturation and mission infusion across multiple NASA programs. The successful candidate will document progress through publications, presentations, and internal reports while contributing to the development of flight-ready UV detector architectures.
Required Qualifications:
• Background in physics, materials science, electrical engineering, or a related field, with a PhD completed or nearing completion.
• Strong background in molecular beam epitaxy (MBE), epitaxial materials growth, or semiconductor process engineering.
• Proficiency in materials characterization methods such as ellipsometry, AFM, SEM, TEM, XRD, or SIMS.
• Ability to interpret materials and device data and translate it into process improvements.
Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience in the use and maintenance of laboratory hardware and instrumentation
• Hands-on cleanroom fabrication experience, ideally at wafer scale, including lithography, deposition, etching, and related process tools.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment
• Strong written and oral communication skills
The appointee will carry out research in collaboration with the JPL advisor, resulting in publications in the open literature.
Applicants may be subject to additional program requirements by NASA. Postdoctoral Scholar positions are awarded for a minimum of one-year period and may be renewed up to a maximum of three years. Candidates should submit the following to this site: CV, representative publications, contact information for three references, and a cover letter stating their research accomplishments and interests.
JPL has a catalog of benefits and perks that span from the traditional to the unique. This includes a variety of health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans, paid time off, learning, rideshare, childcare, flexible schedule, parental leave and many more. Our focus is on work-life balance, and living healthy, fulfilling lives as we Dare Mighty Things Together. For benefits eligible positions, benefits are effective the first day of the month coincident with or immediately following the employee's start date.
For further benefits information click Benefits and Perks
The hiring range displayed below is specifically for those who will work in or reside in the location listed. In extending an offer, Jet Propulsion Laboratory considers factors including, but not limited to, the candidate's job related skills, experience, knowledge, and relevant education/training.
The typical full time equivalent annual hiring range for this job in Pasadena, California.
$83,820 - $83,820
