The U.S. Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST), Microelectromechancial Systems Group (MEMS) proposes to negotiate on a sole source basis contract under the authority of 41 U.S.C. 253(c)(1) with the University of Notre Dame for the development of advanced microfabricated atomic clocks. NIST constructed and tested the first atomic clock physics package based on fabrication techniques usually used in microelectronics and micromachining. There are several design changes to implement to improve the performance of the device. Specific Tasks are as follows: 1) develop new structural designs for microfabricated atomic frequency references with the goal of reducing the power dissipation, improving the long-term frequency stability and simplifying the fabrication and assembly process; 2) collaborate with NIST MEMS group to accomplish the fabrication of individual elements; 3) assemble elements into functioning clock structure and 4) test assembled clock with regard to performance metrics such as frequency stability and power dissipation. The research outlined above requires extensive expertise in the following areas: 1) precision measurements of optical and hyperfine transitions in alkali atoms, such as Cesium and Rubidium; 2) coherent population trapping and nonlinear excitation of atomic hyperfine resonances; 3) the use of diode lasers in atomic spectroscopy; 4) atomic clocks and frequency references; 5) excitation of high-order electromagnetic moments in atoms with coherent optical fields; 6) thermal modeling of microstructures. The research also requires a post-doctoral-level researcher capable of carrying out independent research, writing research papers, presenting results at conferences. The research group at the University of Notre Dame is uniquely qualified in this area. The work will be carried out by a post-doctoral researcher, Vladislav Gerginov, from the University of Notre Dame. Dr. Gerginov’s extensive experience carrying out precision measurements of atomic transitions in alkali atoms make him an ideal candidate to accomplish the tasks outlined in the statement of work above. In his recent work measuring optical transitions in atoms, Dr. Gerginov has had substantial experience using and characterizing optical and microwave clocks and oscillators. Dr. Gerginov’s interaction with the Time and Frequency Division throughout the last two years entailed carrying out research in collaboration with the Optical Frequency Measurements Group on precision spectroscopy of Cs, which has made him familiar with many of the critical test and measurement techniques required for characterizing the micro-miniaturization atomic clocks. The contract period is December 1, 2004 through November 30, 2005. This procurement is being conducted per FAR Part 13, Simplified Acquisition Procedures (NTE $100K). This synopsis is issued for information only. No competitive solicitation is planned. Information submitted in response to this notice will be used solely to determine whether or not use of competitive procedures to fulfill this requirement would be in the Government's best interest and must address qualifications pertinent to this requirement. Terms and Conditions can be found on http://www.arnet.gov/far/ and agency level protest procedures can be found on web site http://oamweb.osec.doc.gov/conops/reflib/alp1296.htm. A copy in full text available from office address and phone number listed in notice. Anticipated award date – November 24, 2004.

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