NIST Molecular Electronics Competence-Building Project

Molecular Electronics is a field that many predict will have important technological impacts on the computational and communication systems of the future. In "moletronic" systems, molecules perform the functions of electronic components. Our objectives are to characterize the structural properties and conduction mechanism through molecules and to develop methods thato reliably and reproducibly measure the electrical properties of ensembles of molecules.

A cross-disciplinary team is needed to tackle the inherently interdisciplinary challenges associated with molecular electronics. This project is a collaboration between the NIST Chemical Science & Technology Laboratory and the NIST Electronics & Electrical Engineering Laboratory. CSTL carries out research investigating the electrical properties of, conduction mechanisms through, and structure of small ensemble of moletronic systems. This research in carried out using optical spectroscopies, scanned-probe detection, and theoretical modeling. EEEL carries out research investigating the electrical properties of, conduction mechanisms through, and structure of larger molecular aggregates that serve as a prototype for likely devices. This research requires fabricating test structures and, after molecules are depositing into the structures, evaluating the electrical properties of these prototypical devices using electrical probe test stations.

Research Areas

Properties of Electrically-Active Molecular Monolayers
         Molecule-Metal Interface
         Through-Molecule Charge Transport
         Electronic Structure

Device Properties
         Test-Structure Fabrication
         Electrical Characterization

Predictive Modeling
         Ab initio calculations
         Analytic charge-transport calculations

We are seeking postdoctoral-level researchers to participate in this research through the NRC Research Associateship Program. Positions are awarded competitively and include $55700 salary and $5500 expense allocation. Application must be submitted by 15 January 2003 to be considered. US citizenship required; NIST is an equal-opportunity employer.

More information

For information and contacts concerning specific research areas, click on the links above.

For general information about the opportunities at NIST
For detailed information about the application process

Created: October 2001
Updated: March 7, 2003

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