Postdoctoral Researcher (Ref. Postdoc 2026-14 NL)

ICIQ; Tarragona; On-site; EUR 34,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

3-year contract

November 2026 start

International research environment

Flexible working hours

Good transport access

Job summary

ICIQ invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join Prof. Núria López’s group in Catalonia.

You will develop hierarchical DT technologies for waste-to-value solutions, focusing on MLPI tuning, simulations, and analysis within a dynamic, international research team. The role includes documentation, reporting, and presenting results at scientific events, with a 3-year full-time contract and November 2026 incorporation.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry or Physics.
• Proven background in Computational Modelling, Molecular Dynamics, Python, Monte Carlo, QM, DFT and ab initio techniques.
• Fluent in English (C1 level minimum).

Responsibilities

• Developing new software for the fine-tuning of Machine Learning Interatomic Potentials (MLPIs) and writing code.
• Running the corresponding simulations and analyzing their results.
• Writing documentation, reports and articles and present results at scientific events.

Skills

Computational Modelling

Molecular Dynamics

Python

Monte Carlo

QM/DFT/ab initio

Education

PhD in Chemistry or Physics

Tools

MLPI coding

DFT

Monte Carlo methods

Job description

The Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ) is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to work in Prof. Núria López’s group. This position will be funded by project 101306664-AIM, “AI-Multiscale Integration For Waste-To-Value Digital Twins”, European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency, HORIZON-EIC-2025-PATHFINDERCHALLENGES-01-04

ICIQ is one of the world’s internationally recognized leading institutions in the field of chemistry committed to solving major social and economic challenges by conducting top quality research in three main areas: Sustainable Catalysis, Renewable Energy and Health. The institute also aims at training the future generation of scientists by offering high-quality educational programs to Master, Ph. D. students and postdoctoral researchers (full details on http://www.iciq.org/).

Project Description

ICIQ is looking for a postdoctoral researcher in the group of Prof. Núria López. The candidate will be developing hierarchical DT technologies for the design of practical waste-to-value solutions based on fundamental chemical and physical principles.

Responsibilities

• Developing new software for the fine-tuning of Machine Learning Interatomic Potentials (MLPIs) and writing code.
• Running the corresponding simulations and analyzing their results.
• Writing documentation, reports and articles and present results at scientific events.

Requirements

• Ph. D. in Chemistry or Physics
• Proven background in Computational Modelling, Molecular Dynamics, Python, Monte Carlo, QM, DFT and ab initio techniques.
• Fluent in English (C1 level minimum).

Valued qualities and experience

• Excellent coding skills.
• Sound experience in MLPIs.

We Offer

• A full-time contract for 3 years.
• Incorporation: November 2026
• An international and dynamic environment within a multidisciplinary team
• Annual salary split into 12 monthly payments.
• Remuneration aligned with the company’s salary policy, PIIP2 level based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience.
• Flexible 37.5 hours working week
• Free parking available at our facilities.
• Continuous training plan to support your professional development.
• Good connection to public transportation networks.
• Facilities with spacious areas, abundant natural light, and a functional, well‑designed environment aimed at enhancing people’s wellbeing.

OTM-R principles in the selection processes

ICIQ follows the principles of Open, Transparent and Merit-based Recruitment (OTM-R) and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers as established by the European Commission.

ICIQ follows in its selection process a gender equality opportunity policy and a non-discrimination policy on the basis of age, ethnic or social origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, language and disability.

ICIQ is committed to promoting a work-life balance for its employees and, as such, offers flexible working hours.

Selection Process

• Pre-selection: The pre-selection process will be based on qualifications and expertise as reflected on the candidates’ CVs. This phase is merit-based.
• Interview: Preselected candidates will be interviewed by the Hiring Manager of the position and the appointed Selection Committee.
• Offer Letter: Once the successful candidate is selected, the People Unit will extend a Job Offer, specifying the start day, salary and overall job conditions.

For further information, you can visit our HR Excellence in Research page at: HR Excellence in Research (iciq.org)