The Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ) is seeking a Project Researcher to work at the Innovation and Valorisation Laboratory. This position will be funded by the Agència de Gestió d'Ajuts Universitaris i de Recerca (AGAUR) through project “MENISC” (ref. 2024 PROD 00208), within the “Ajuts d’indústria del Coneixement, Modalitat B. Producte” 2024 call.

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 on http://www.iciq.org/).

ICIQ is looking for a Project Researcher with experience in Material Chemistry to work at the Innovation and Valorisation Laboratory. The researchers will work on the scale-up process of metal nitrides and their use in the fabrication of semiconductors. This project is funded by “Ajuts d'Indústria del Coneixement per a l'any 2024. Modalitat B. Ajuts Producte, ref. 2024 PROD 00208” from AGAUR.

Responsibilities

• Lead research on the growth and characterization of advanced layer and multilayer thin films using techniques like AC and DC sputtering
• Scale up nitride fabrication processes under heterogeneous conditions
• Writing reports and delivering result presentations in group meetings
• Complete documentation of results
• Maintenance of laboratory equipment

Requirements

• Degree in Material Science, Physics, Electronic Engineering or close related field
• Strong expertise in thin-film growth, semiconductor fabrication, and advanced thin-film characterization, with proficiency in techniques such as XRD, SEM, EDS, TEM, AFM, XPS, surface profiling among others
• Good knowledge of English (written and spoken)
• Strong commitment for scientific excellence
• Motivated, creative, and problem-solving individual capable of working independently as well as in a team

Valued qualities

• PhD in Material Science, Physics, Electronic Engineering or close related field.
• Hands-on experience in fabricating ceramic materials
• Cleanroom experience
• Good communication skills

We offer

• A full-time employment contract for the length of the project (expected end date March 1^st 2026).
• Remuneration according to individual’s qualifications/experience.
• Annual salary split in twelve monthly payments.
• Incorporation: Immediate.

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 (iciq.org)