Postdoctoral Researchers (Ref: Postdoc 2026-18 JB)

ICIQ; Tarragona; On-site; EUR 29,000 - 31,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full-time contract 3 years

International, multidisciplinary team

Annual salary aligned with policy (€28

Job summary

ICIQ, a leading Catalan chemical research institute, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Berrocal Group to develop light-responsive polymer materials and study structure–property relationships in soft matter. The project combines organic synthesis, polymer chemistry, and photochemical methods within an interdisciplinary environment.

The successful candidate will contribute to design, synthesis, and characterization of functional macromolecular systems, with opportunities to

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Polymer Science, or related discipline.
• Strong background in organic/polymer synthesis and characterization.
• Proven scientific productivity with peer-reviewed publications.
• Excellent laboratory, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and in interdisciplinary teams.
• Good command of written and spoken English.
• Experience in photochemistry or photoresponsive polymers is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Design and synthesis of molecular building blocks, monomers, and polymeric materials.
• Develop responsive polymer networks and materials using dynamic and supramolecular interactions.
• Characterize molecules and materials using spectroscopic, thermal, mechanical, and chromatographic methods.
• Plan, execute, and analyze research activities aligned with project goals.
• Prepare scientific manuscripts, reports, and conference presentations.
• Supervise and mentor undergraduate and graduate students.
• Participate actively in group meetings and collaborative research activities.

Skills

Synthetic organic chemistry

Polymer chemistry

Polymer synthesis

Characterization techniques

Independent & team work

English communication

Photochemistry experience

Education

PhD in Chemistry/Materials Science/Polymer Science or related

Job description

The Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ) is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Berrocal research group. This position will be funded by ERC 101041759.

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 masters, PhD students and postdoctoral researchers (full details on http://www.iciq.org/).

Description of the project

The successful candidate will join the Berrocal Group at ICIQ and contribute to the development of light-responsive and adaptive polymer materials based on light-triggered reactivity and/or supramolecular interactions. The project focuses on the design, synthesis, and characterization of functional macromolecular systems that respond to external stimuli by the controlled activation of molecular mechanisms. Particular emphasis will be placed on the development of novel polymer architectures and advanced characterization methodologies to understand structure–property relationships in soft materials.

The research combines organic synthesis, polymer chemistry, materials characterization, and photochemical methodologies within a highly interdisciplinary environment. The candidate will work closely with PhD students and collaborators while contributing to the scientific objectives of the Berrocal Group and the ERC-funded research program.

Responsibilities

• Design and synthesis of molecular building blocks, monomers, and polymeric materials.

• Development of responsive polymer networks and functional materials based on dynamic and supramolecular interactions.

• Characterization of molecules and materials using spectroscopic, thermal, mechanical and chromatographic techniques.

• Planning, execution, and analysis of research activities related to the project objectives.

• Preparation of scientific manuscripts, reports, and conference presentations.

• Supervision and mentoring of undergraduate and graduate students.

• Active participation in group meetings and collaborative research activities.

Requirements:

• PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Polymer Science, or a related discipline.

• Strong background in synthetic organic chemistry and/or polymer chemistry.

• Experience in the preparation and characterization of polymeric materials.

• Proven scientific productivity demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications.

• Excellent laboratory, problem-solving, and communication skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary research team.

• Good command of written and spoken English.

• Previous experience in photochemistry, photoresponsive materials, molecular switches, or advanced polymer characterization will be considered an advantage.

We offer:

• A full-time contract for 3 years.

• Incorporation: 1st of January, 2027

• An international and dynamic environment within a multidisciplinary team

• Annual salary split into 12 monthly payments.

• Remuneration aligned with the company’s salary policy, within the PIIP1– PIIP2 band (28.560€ – 31.110€) 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.

ICIQis committed to promoting a work‑life balance for its employees and, as such, offers flexible working hours.

Selection Process

ICIQ’s selection process usually entails the following phases:

• 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).

ERC 101041759‑ReHuse funded by the European Union