Postdoctoral Researcher

The Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ) is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Dr. Elisabet Romero Research Group.

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, PhD students and postdoctoral researchers (full details in ).

Short Project description:

This project aims to understand the ultrafast energy and electron transfer dynamics in natural and artificial photosynthetic complexes, with a focus on the presence and role of quantum coherent effects.

Responsibilities:

• To investigate ultrafast energy and electron transfer dynamics in a series of bio-inspired chromophore-protein assemblies and natural photosynthetic complexes by a collection of ultrafast time-resolved spectroscopic techniques [Two-Dimensional Electronic Spectroscopy (2DES), Transient Absorption, and Transient Fluorescence (with a Streak camera)].

• To run, maintain in good condition and optimize when needed the time-resolved spectroscopic instruments.

• To keep track of the proper performance of the climatization system of the LaserLab.

• To conduct independent research as well as in collaboration with other members of the group.

• To supervise PhD and/or Master students.

• To write reports, scientific articles, and present the research outcomes in international conferences.

Requirements

• PhD in (Bio)Physics, Physical Chemistry, or related fields.

• Solid and proven expertise in the ultrafast time-resolved spectroscopic techniques mentioned above.

• Proficient technical skills in ultrafast optics. Ability to build: non-colinear optical parametric amplifiers (NOPAs), pulse duration compressors, pulse diagnostics setups (SFG-FROG), and related setups.

• Programming skills in Matlab, Phyton, and/or LabView.

• Good organization skills.

• Capacity to work independently and within a team.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.

• Submit the required documents taking into account the following guidelines:

• CV: specify any relevant experience together with a detailed description of previous accomplishments;

• Cover letter: highlight the interest in the position, the reasons to apply to our group and a short description of previous research (3 pages in total).

Valued qualities:

• Commitment to excellence in research, strong motivation for science, positive attitude, open-mind, and dynamism.

• Good communication skills.

• Capacity to supervise Master and PhD students.

We offer:

• Dynamic and international working environment.

• Training and access to a wide range of scientific facilities (for details see ).

• Language courses

• Soft skills training

• Employment conditions:

• A 3-year full-time employment contract.

• Remuneration according to qualifications/expertise.

• Annual salary split into twelve monthly payments.

• Incorporation from January 2026

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 

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 )