Current Opportunities at Vanderbilt

The Caldwell Infrared Nanophotonic Materials and Devices Laboratory is focused on employing novel spectroscopic methods, identification of new or modified materials and structures and nanophotonic concepts towards advancing the infrastructure available for infrared optics and components. This extends to applications such as thermal imaging, chemical and biological sensing, and on-chip photonics. We are seeking a postdoctoral candidate who can help us push the boundaries of these fields and bring new concepts and fields of research, especially in regards to developing the guiding principles governing twist-optic and moiré interactions between two-dimensional and/or low-symmetry materials, artificial metamaterials, and combinations thereof.
The successful candidate will assist in leading cutting edge research projects as part of a broader FY23 Multi-University Research Initiative (MURI) team focused on understanding and characterizing nano- to atomic-scale interactions within misoriented layers/films of polaritonic and metasurface media. The candidate should have a firm understanding of nanophotonic design, nanoscale fabrication, electromagnetic modeling, and optical characterization. Infrared optical characterization using methods such as Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scattering-type scanning near-field optical microscopy, and/or nano-FTIR are beneficial, but not required. The candidate will also be tasked with coordinating scientific interactions between the MURI teams, advising undergraduate and graduate students, and be willing to travel for performing experiments and attend in-person scientific meetings. Day-to-day assistance in the maintenance of lab equipment is also needed. The candidate will also be given a high level of ownership over research and development projects, providing them with the opportunity to forge some of their own research directions in this space. Thus, the candidate must have excellent project management skills and strong technical problem-solving abilities.

Desired Qualifications: We are looking for a highly motivated, focused candidate, with a strong work ethic, excellent technical and teamworking skills, and strong track record of publication of their research. Candidates should hold a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Optics, or a related discipline. We’re a highly interdisciplinary team that collaborates broadly within Vanderbilt, with other universities in the US and abroad, so the successful candidate must be self-motivated and able to integrate themselves well within the team and our broader collaborative network.
The candidate will interact with faculty, mentor students, and work directly with Prof. Josh Caldwell, who is committed to mentoring and facilitating career development, be it in academia or industry. The following skills are highly desirable:
• proficiency in advanced techniques using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, infrared laser-based spectroscopy and/or infrared optics and device design, or other optical spectroscopic methods
• proficiency in electromagnetic modeling of polaritonic, metamaterial, two-dimensional materials, and/or nanophotonic devices
• proficiency with nanofabrication required
• proficiency with two-dimensional material exfoliation and transfer methods desired
• experience with infrared nano-optic probes (e.g. nano-FTIR, s-SNOM), infrared detector or source design are desired
The initial appointment will be for one year, with the possibility of renewal based on satisfactory performance. The expectation is for the successful candidate to remain for a minimum of 2 years.

Institutional Information: Vanderbilt University is a private, internationally recognized research university located in Nashville, Tennessee, which has a metro population of 1.9 million people. The School of Engineering is located adjacent to the Vanderbilt University Medical Center, creating a rich environment for interdisciplinary and translational research. Vanderbilt University is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. Women and minorities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Please provide a (1) cover letter (<2 pages) briefly summarizing your research interests, and relevant background, (2) CV, (3) PDFs of two recent publications with substantial contributions from the candidate (e.g., 1st or 2nd author), and (4) contact information for 3 references. 

Please direct emails and inquiries to Prof. Josh Caldwell (josh.caldwell@vanderbilt.edu). Applicants will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.