Postdoctoral Researcher - Multifunctional Materials Development

Who is Elve?Elve, Inc. is a deep-tech startup in Davis, CA, whose patented technology enables 100x faster wireless internet access in urban settings and remote locations. Elve delivers a transformative approach to designing and manufacturing high-efficiency lightweight millimeter-wave and near-THz RF power amplifiers in large quantities. Our solutions enable the next generation of wireless connectivity well beyond 5G, as well as high-resolution imaging and radar. We are looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher to play a role in advancing our technology. If you are passionate about the future of RF electronics, cathodes, additive manufacturing, precision assembly, microfabrication, vacuum systems, advanced materials processing, and contributing to a small and energetic team - we can't wait to meet you!Job DescriptionWe are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our team focusing on developing high current density nanocomposite scandate tungsten (NST) electron emitters employed to energize millimeter wave power amplifiers manufactured by Elve. This is an 18-month program. A successful candidate will engage in cutting-edge research to enhance these advanced electron emitters' performance, manufacturability, and lifetime. The researcher will conduct experimental research on the synthesis, characterization, and optimization of materials used to fabricate NST emitters including the design and execution of experiments focused on the electrical and thermal properties of those emitters. The candidate will also collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of physicists, materials scientists, and engineers to integrate those findings into device prototypes and processes. We are looking for a colleague who will analyze data using statistical and modeling techniques and present findings in academic journals and conferences as well as internally to Elve.Work Environment (May be a combination of the following but not limited to):Manufacturing EnvironmentISO 5 - ISO 8 CleanroomLaboratoryMachine shopWarehouseOfficeRequirementsRequirementsPh.D. in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, Electrical Engineering, or a related fieldBackground in material synthesis and characterization techniques (e.g., XRD, SEM, etc.)Proficiency in data analysis software (e.g., MATLAB, Python, or similar)Excellent written and oral communication skillsAbility to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environmentExperience working with small parts / small thingsWithin a commutable distance of Davis, CAUS Citizenship RequiredDesired SkillsExperience publishing research in peer-reviewed journalsProficiency in investigating and incorporating results from published materialsFamiliarity with the fabrication and testing of cathodes for vacuum devicesFamiliarity with theoretical models for cathode emission in vacuum environmentsExperience with ultra-high vacuum systemsBenefitsBenefitsThe salary range for this position is $65,000 to $120,000 annuallyHealth benefits (medical, dental, vision)VacationA taste of the start-up lifeExposure to cutting-edge technology in vacuum electronics, materials science, and additive manufacturingEngagement with world-class experts and engineers at all levelsWhat it's like to work at ElveWe are an expanding team on a mission to bring the next generation of high-speed wireless connectivity to a billion people worldwide. That kind of impact will not be achieved with incremental improvements - we are gunning for orders of magnitude advances in production capability, cost, size, and power in the mm-wave RF amplifier market. We work hard, make sure we get good sleep, handle conflict with intentionality, and expect great things from each other.