Postdoctoral Researcher (Ref : Postdoc 2025-12 KV)

Somma; Tarragona; Presencial; EUR 35.000 - 55.000; Jornada completa

Descripción de la vacante

A leading research institute in Catalonia is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to join their Villa research group. This position involves developing a sensing platform for environmental monitoring and requires a PhD in relevant fields with expertise in SERS and nanoparticle synthesis. The role offers a full-time contract for three years with competitive remuneration and a start date of 01/11/2025.

Formación

• Proven experience in SERS and nanoparticle synthesis.
• Knowledge of active matter or micromotors is a plus.
• Proficiency in simulation and data analysis tools like MATLAB.

Responsabilidades

• Design and synthesize photoactive microswimmers.
• Develop surface modification strategies.
• Prepare reports and contribute to publications.
• Guide and support students and team members.

Conocimientos

Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS)

Plasmonic nanoparticle synthesis

MATLAB

Python

COMSOL

Educación

PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Nanotechnology, or Chemical Engineering

Descripción del empleo

The Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ) is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Villa research group. This position will be funded by the European Union (ERC 101248363 - PhotoSERS).

ICIQ is one of the world's leading institutions in chemistry, committed to addressing social and economic challenges through high-quality research in Sustainable Catalysis, Renewable Energy, and Health. The institute also trains future scientists via educational programs for Master’s, PhD students, and postdoctoral researchers. The project focuses on developing an innovative sensing platform that integrates self-propelled microswimmers, microfluidic systems, and optical detection techniques to enable highly sensitive identification of emerging environmental contaminants in water. The goal is to create a portable, lab-scale device capable of selective pollutant capture and real-time analysis, with potential for commercialization and environmental monitoring applications.

Responsibilities

• Design, synthesis, and characterization of photoactive microswimmers, including polymer fabrication and nanoparticle decoration.
• Development and optimization of surface modification strategies for selective target recognition.
• Perform SERS measurements and data analysis.
• Assemble and validate integrated microfluidic detection systems.
• Test performance in controlled and real environmental samples.
• Prepare reports and contribute to scientific publications.
• Support technology transfer activities and collaborate with external partners.
• Participate in project meetings and interdisciplinary discussions.
• Guide and support students and team members.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety protocols.

Requirements

• PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Nanotechnology, or Chemical Engineering.
• Proven experience in Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) and plasmonic nanoparticle synthesis and functionalization.
• Experience with PFAS detection or environmental pollutant analysis is advantageous.
• Knowledge of active matter, micromotors, or colloidal systems is highly valued.
• Expertise in surface modification techniques for target recognition is a plus.
• Familiarity with microfluidic device design and testing.
• Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, COMSOL, or similar tools for simulation and data analysis.
• Experience with particle tracking, image processing, and electrical field analysis.
• Motivated, independent, problem-solver with good communication skills in English.

We offer

• A 3-year full-time contract.
• Remuneration based on qualifications and experience.
• Annual salary paid in twelve monthly installments.
• Start date: 01/11/2025.

OTM-R principles

ICIQ adheres to Open, Transparent, and Merit-based Recruitment (OTM-R) principles and the European Commission's Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers. The institute promotes gender equality, non-discrimination, and work-life balance through flexible working hours.

Selection Process

The process typically involves:

1. Pre-selection based on CV qualifications and expertise.
2. Interviews with the Hiring Manager and Selection Committee.
3. Job offer with details on start date, salary, and conditions.

For more information, visit our HR Excellence in Research page: HR Excellence in Research (iciq.org)

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