Doctoral Researcher in Pulse Electron Paramagnetic Resonance

1000scholars; Zürich; On-site; CHF 60,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

ETH Zurich invites applications for a Doctoral Researcher in Pulse Electron Paramagnetic Resonance. The position is 100% at Zurich, fixed-term, funded by an SNSF Starting Grant.

The project lies at the interface of method development and applied chemical spectroscopy. The work centers on developing pulse EPR sequences with enhanced sensitivity and applying them to inorganic, catalytic, and organic radical systems, with potential optical hyperpolarisation developments.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in (physical) chemistry or a related field by the start of the position.
• Interest in spin dynamics, magnetic resonance, and their applications to (in)organic chemistry.
• Research experience in an advanced magnetic resonance technique (EPR, solid-state NMR, or similar).
• A good understanding of the physics underlying magnetic resonance is expected.

Responsibilities

• Work with a state-of-the-art pulse EPR spectrometer with arbitrary phase and amplitude control.
• Develop new pulse sequences with improved sensitivity and information content.
• Apply methods to challenging inorganic, catalytic and organic radical systems.
• Incorporate spin-dynamics simulations and, if appropriate, quantum-chemical calculations.
• Potentially include chemical synthesis and catalysis depending on background.

Skills

Spin dynamics

EPR

Solid-state NMR

Quantum-chemical calculations

Education

Master's degree in (physical) chemistry or related field

Tools

Calculations (quantum-chem)

Job description

Doctoral Researcher in Pulse Electron Paramagnetic Resonance

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Spin Dynamics and Hyperpolarisation group is looking for a doctoral researcher, fully funded by a Starting Grant from the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF). The group explores ways to enhance the sensitivity of electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR, also known as electron spin resonance, ESR) by orders of magnitude. The project lies at the interface between method development and applied chemical spectroscopy.

Starting date: by mutual agreement. There is no deadline and the position will remain open until suitable candidates are found. Applications are considered as long as this advertisement is online.

Job description

The position involves working with a state-of-the-art pulse EPR spectrometer with arbitrary phase and amplitude control. The aim is to develop new pulse sequences with improved sensitivity and higher information content, and to apply them to challenging systems from inorganic chemistry and catalysis, as well as to organic radicals. Our group is also developing a new method based on optical hyperpolarisation, which will eventually be applied to the same systems.

The work will focus on the spectroscopic aspects, including experiments and spin-dynamics simulations. Depending on the candidate's background, it can also include chemical synthesis and catalysis, as well as quantum-chemical calculations.

The working language of the group is English.

Profile

• The candidate must hold a Master's degree in (physical) chemistry or a related field by the start of the position. Interest in spin dynamics, magnetic resonance, and their applications to (in)organic chemistry is essential.
• Research experience in an advanced magnetic resonance technique (EPR, solid-state NMR, or similar) is required.
• A good understanding of the physics underlying magnetic resonance is expected.

In addition, the candidate should have:

• The drive to take ownership of their project and push it forward
• Openness to collaborating with people from different backgrounds

We offer

• An exciting project at the forefront of magnetic resonance method development
• A position in a new research group with close collaboration and structured mentoring
• Considerable freedom to pursue your own ideas and to develop both academically and personally
• World-class infrastructure
• Opportunities to initiate your own collaborations

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.

Further information about Institute for Molecular Physical Science can be found on our Website.

Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Nino Wili ([e-mail]) (no applications).