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Atomic Force Microscopy Afm Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Asylum Research

Field Service Engineer I

Concord, MA

Hands-on experience with advanced microscopy imaging techniques, including Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Fluorescence, and Confocal microscopy. * Proficient in ...

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Atomic Force Microscopy Afm information

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$59.5K

$111.6K

$203K

How much do atomic force microscopy afm jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for atomic force microscopy afm in the United States is $111,632.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is atomic force microscopy (AFM)?

Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) is a high-resolution imaging technique used to study the surface topography of materials at the nanometer scale. It works by scanning a sharp probe over the surface of a sample to detect forces between the probe and the sample, creating detailed 3D images of the surface. AFM is widely used in fields such as materials science, biology, and nanotechnology to analyze surface structures, measure mechanical properties, and manipulate nanoscale objects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an atomic force microscopy (AFM) specialist?

To thrive as an Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) Specialist, you need a strong background in physics, materials science, or engineering, often supported by a relevant degree or advanced training. Proficiency in operating AFM instruments, analyzing nanoscale data, and using specialized imaging and analysis software is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, meticulous attention to detail, and clear communication set top performers apart. These competencies are critical for producing reliable, high-quality research results and supporting innovation in nanotechnology and materials analysis.

What are some common challenges faced by atomic force microscopy (AFM) specialists, and how can they be addressed in daily work?

AFM specialists often encounter challenges such as sample preparation difficulties, tip contamination, and achieving high-resolution imaging on various materials. Addressing these issues typically involves careful sample handling, regular calibration and maintenance of the AFM instrument, and troubleshooting scanning artifacts. Collaborating with colleagues in materials science, engineering, or biology can also help in developing customized solutions to complex imaging problems and lead to more reliable results.

What is the difference between Atomic Force Microscopy Afm vs Scanning Electron Microscope Sem?

AspectAtomic Force Microscopy (AFM)Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)
Primary FunctionMeasures surface topography at nanoscale using a cantilever and probeProduces high-resolution images of sample surfaces using electron beams
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, often in materials science, biology, and nanotechnologyLaboratories in materials, electronics, and biological research
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in physics, materials science, or engineeringSimilar educational background, often with additional training in electron microscopy

While both AFM and SEM are used for surface imaging at the nanoscale, AFM provides topographical data through physical contact or proximity, whereas SEM uses electron beams to generate detailed images. The choice depends on the specific application, sample type, and desired data.

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What job categories do people searching Atomic Force Microscopy Afm jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Atomic Force Microscopy Afm jobs are:

Infographic showing various Atomic Force Microscopy Afm job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,632 per year, or $53.7 per hour.

Postdoctoral Scholar Position in Functional Ceramic Materials

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

234th of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the term length discussed will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Pennsylvania State University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar position in the area of functional ceramic materials in the Randall group. The successful candidate will join an internationally recognized research group conducting cutting-edge research on the processing, characterization, and performance of advanced ceramic materials for energy, electronic, and electromechanical applications within the Materials Research Institute (MRI),
The research program focuses on a broad range of functional ceramics, including:
  • Piezoelectric and ferroelectric materials
  • Capacitor dielectric materials
  • Cathode materials for next-generation batteries
  • Advanced ceramic processing and microstructural engineering

The successful candidate should have demonstrated expertise in the processing, structure, property, and performance relationships of ceramic materials. Experience in one or more of the following areas is highly desirable:
  • Ceramic powder synthesis and processing
  • Structural and microstructural characterization
  • Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
  • Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM)
  • Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM)
  • X-ray diffraction (XRD) and related X-ray characterization techniques
  • Electrical and electromechanical characterization of functional ceramics
  • Impedance spectroscopy
  • Electrochemical characterization
  • Thermally Stimulated Depolarization Current (TSDC) analysis
  • Ferroelectric, dielectric, piezoelectric, or electrochemical measurements
  • Other advanced characterization techniques relevant to functional materials

The Postdoctoral Scholar will be expected to:
  • Conduct independent, high-quality research leading to publications in leading international journals.
  • Develop and execute innovative research projects aligned with the group's research objectives.
  • Work collaboratively with graduate students, undergraduate researchers, visiting scientists, and faculty collaborators.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to students and visiting researchers.
  • Assist with the operation and development of advanced experimental capabilities within the laboratory.
  • Contribute to the preparation of research proposals, technical reports, and presentations.
  • Present research findings at national and international conferences.
  • Publish research in high-level journals.

Required Qualifications:
  • Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Ceramic Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, or a closely related discipline.
  • Strong experimental background in functional ceramic materials.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Demonstrated publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary research team.

Preferred Qualifications and Experience in one or more of the following areas will be considered an advantage:
  • Functional oxide ceramics
  • Ferroelectric and piezoelectric materials
  • Multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs)
  • Solid-state electrochemistry
  • Battery materials
  • Advanced microscopy and spectroscopy
  • Reliability and degradation of electronic materials
  • Data analysis and modeling of structure-property relationships

This position offers the opportunity to work within a highly collaborative and internationally recognized research environment with access to state-of-the-art characterization and processing facilities. The successful candidate will be encouraged to develop independent research directions while contributing to a broad portfolio of sponsored research programs.
Applications should include a cover letter describing research interests and relevant experience, a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, and the names and contact information of three professional references.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
BENEFITS
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.
For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. (Note: For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.)
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.
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