Postdoctoral Researcher (Ref: Postdoc 2025-10 KV)

The Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ) is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Villa research group. This position will be funded by Consolidación Investigadora (CNS2024-154696), financiada por MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 y por la Unión Europea NextGenerationEU/PRTR.

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/).

Description of the project: The project focuses on the design, fabrication, and control of light-driven micromotors under structured light. By precisely modulating light intensity, phase, and polarization, the goal is to steer micromotor trajectories, induce dynamic self-assembly, and manipulate collective behaviors. The work combines experimental development of advanced optical systems with numerical simulations of electromagnetic fields, active matter dynamics, and chemical–electrical interactions at the microscale. Applications include environmental sensing, targeted delivery, and adaptive materials.

Responsibilities

• Perform experimental studies on micromotor propulsion, trajectory control, and collective self-assembly.
• Conduct numerical simulations of particle–light interactions, electromagnetic fields, and micromotor dynamics (FDTD, FEM, or similar).
• Investigate the role of chemical and photochemical reactions in micromotor propulsion and self-organization.
• Analyze micromotor motion dynamics using particle tracking, image processing, statistical methods and flow visualization techniques.
• Develop and optimize optical setups using spatial light modulators for dynamic light shaping.
• Write reports and scientific articles.
• Present research findings at internal meetings and international conferences.
• Provide guidance and support to students and team members.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety protocols.

Requirements:

• PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, Optics, Photonics, Engineering, or a related field.
• Proven experience with numerical simulations (FDTD, FEM, MCRT, BEM) applied to electromagnetic or particle–field interactions.
• Knowledge of active matter, micromotors, or colloidal systems is highly valued.
• Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, COMSOL, or similar for simulation and data analysis.
• Hands-on experience with particle tracking, image processing, and flow analysis.
• Background in light-matter interaction, self-electrophoresis, diffusiophoresis, or related phenomena is a plus.
• Familiarity with spatial light modulators, digital micromirror devices, and microfluidics.
• Experience in microparticle/nanoparticle manipulation using optical and/or optofluidic techniques.
• High motivation, independence, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work in an interdisciplinary environment.
• Excellent communication skills in English (spoken and written).

We offer:

• A 3-year full-time contract.
• Remuneration according to individual’s qualification/experience.
• Annual salary split in twelve monthly payments
• Incorporation: 02/06/2025.

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)