Postdoctoral Researcher

The Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ) is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to work in Dr. Katherine Villa’s research group. This position will be funded by an ERC-StG project (PhotoSwim).

Our mission is to lead, from the vantage point of molecular science, cross-strategies for solving major social and economic challenges, such as climate change and sustainable supply of energetic and raw materials, thereby contributing to the establishment of a knowledge-based economy and improving citizens’ quality of life in our influence area.

ICIQ is looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher to work in Dr. Katherine Villa’s Research Group. The project will deal with the design of hybrid self-propelled nanoswimmers.

**Responsibilities**:

- Design and development of heterostructures, nanoparticles, and persistent phosphors by different synthetic methods.
- Characterize energy/charge transfer dynamics among components.
- Write reports and scientific articles.
- Present research findings at internal meetings and conferences
- Provide guidance and support to students and team members.
- Manage and monitor lab safety.

**Requirements**:

- PhD in Materials Science or Physics.
- Development and characterization of visible and near-infrared persistent phosphors by solid-state and wet chemical methods.
- Proven experience in photoluminescence, transient absorption spectroscopy, and lifetime measurements.
- Experience in advanced characterization methods, Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), SEM, TEM, XRD, Raman spectroscopy, XPS and BET surface area.
- Experience in the development and characterization of self-propelled micromotors, is a plus.
- In-depth expertise in the physics of semiconductor surfaces and heterostructures.
- Excellent communication and organizational skills
- Ability to present the results the results of research in scientific journals and in international congresses and also to non-scientific audience is a must.
- Proven excellent knowledge of English.

**Valued qualities**:

- Demonstrated experience in reporting and publishing research results in top scientific journals.
- S/He should be motivated, open-minded, highly dynamic, and capable of working in a team, making decisions, solving problems, and creative thinking.
- Strong commitment for scientific research in a competitive environment.

**We offer**:

- A 3-year full-time position.
- Remuneration according to individual’s qualification/experience.
- Annual salary split in twelve monthly payments.
- Incorporation: 1st of May.