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).

ICIQ is committed to performing excellent research at the frontier of knowledge in the broad area of chemistry (Catalysis, Artificial Photosynthesis, Activation of Small Molecules, Photovoltaics, Functional Molecular Assemblies and Chemical Biology, from either theoretical or experimental perspectives). The institute also aims at training the future generation of scientists by offering high-quality educational programmes to master, PhD students and postdoctoral researchers (Full details on http://www.iciq.org/).

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: 1^st of May.