X-ray/TEM Postdoctoral Researcher

ALBA is the Spanish synchrotron light source, a large research infrastructure operating thirteen beamlines, complementary facilities, and an Electron Microscopy Center, this last in partnership with other institutions. Currently constructing multiple more beamlines, expanding the Electron Microscopy Center, and integrating advanced data analytics, it sums up a wide range of infrastructures geared toward finding solutions to societal challenges. Located in Cerdanyola del Vallès (Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain), it is funded by the Spanish Government (Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación) and the Catalan Government (Generalitat de Catalunya, Departament de Recerca i Universitats). The synchrotron light produced by 3 GeV electrons is used by thousands of researchers to analyse and understand the properties and functionality of matter, spanning a wide variety of fields, such as catalytic research, health, energy production/storage, environmental research, communication technologies, or cultural heritage. Our highly motivated staff works in a multidisciplinary work environment with an atmosphere formed by lived diversity, inclusion and respect for our colleagues. One of the goals of our gender equality plan is to reach parity within the Consortium’s different divisions and offices, and several actions have been taken to encourage applications from women mostly in scientific, engineer and technical job positions. Located close to Barcelona in a natural park and well connected by car and public transportation, with excellent connectivity to the world and an employer who understands the importance of life-work balance. Facing an upgrade to ALBA II, a 4th generation facility, which will increase dramatically brightness and coherent flux, ALBA is in a phase of growth and dynamics. Being a part of the ALBA team will promote your career and will give you the opportunities to explore new territories. For more information, you can take a look on our history watching this video: This postdoctoral position is dedicated to scientific and technical methods for correlative operando X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS) and (Scanning) Transmission Electron Microscopy (S)TEM within the frame of the IMPRESS project (Interoperable electron Microscopy Platform for advanced RESearch and Services), funded by HORIZON-INFRA-2022-TECH-01-01. The IMPRESS project aims to develop an interoperable platform based on a modular and standardized cartridge concept. The cartridges are designed to be inserted into TEM specimen and aperture holders, as well as other instruments for preparation and characterization, including surface science tools, transport measurements, microfocus X-ray tomography instruments, and synchrotrons. Within IMPRESS, ALBA is involved in the development of a MEMS-based micro-reactor for correlative photocatalytic experiments in TEM and synchrotron beamlines for CO2 reduction reaction and generation of high value products. The selected person will report to the Interdisciplinary and Multimodal Section Head and will work in close synergy with the Interface X-ray/TEM and Methodology groups, with beamline scientists, the Joint Electron Microscopy Center at ALBA (JEMCA), and with the project partners. The role emphasis is on the testing of the microreactor prototypes in the (S)TEM and x-ray beamlines. Specifically, the responsibilities will include:
* Executing the commissioning, operation and maintenance of micro-cell reactor systems for catalysis research.
* Contributing to define procedures for operando and in-situ correlative (S)TEM/X-ray analysis services within a network of experts and under consideration of the international community.
* Contributing to the improvement of the micro-cell reactor system and the development of a true multi-technique approach that will benefit staff, collaborators, and external users.
* Supporting staff and collaborators in (S)TEM and x-ray experiments making use of the micro-cell reactor systems.
* Analysing and interpreting multimodal experimental data.
* Disseminating results through peer-reviewed publications, conference contributions, project deliverables and reports. Requirements The requirements for participation must be met on the date of the deadline for the submission of applications and will be accredited by means of the CV attached to it, without prejudice to the power of the selection body to require the contribution of the originals of the certifications accrediting the qualifications, training and work experience invoked in the CV. Applications that do not present the aforementioned or required documentation during the selection procedure will not be accepted. Candidates must hold a PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Nanotechnology, Physics, or equivalent, and have hands-on experience in (S)TEM and/or synchrotron X-ray techniques. Everyone who meets the requirements will be admitted for the selection process. This position is reserved for those candidates having the legal status