Postdoctoral Researcher (Ref: Postdoc 2025-11 NL)

The Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ) is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the López research group. This position will be funded by the “Superval” project (ref. 101115456).

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: We are looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher to work in the EU-funded “Superval” project (ref. 101115456) for the conversion of climate change agents into useful molecules. The project started in November 2023 and involves simulations through computational modeling with Density Functional Theory and advanced computational techniques and machine learning concepts. The candidate needs to have an interest in atomic-scale modelling and to have performed studies and simulations applying density functional theory.

Responsibilities

• Those described in the project that will be made available to the researcher once they start.
• Writing of scientific reports and articles
• Supervision of visiting students, summer fellows, M.SC. and Ph.D. students

Requirements:

• Finished PhD in Physics, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering or Theoretical/Computational Chemistry.

• § Strong expertise in the use of DFT, VASP, QE, LAMMPS and related codes.

• § Experience in the study of reactivity.

• § Previous experience with Python and HPC resources.

• § Ability to cooperate with experimental teams.

• § Ability to present the results of research in scientific journals and in international congresses and also to non-scientific audiences is a must.
• § Proven excellent knowledge of English (desirable C1 level, IELTS 7.0-7.5).

• § They should be a motivated, open-minded, highly dynamic person and capable of working independently as well as in a team.

• Demonstrated experience in reporting and publishing research results in top scientific journals.
• Capable of working in a team, decision making, creative thinking and problem solving.
• Strong commitment for scientific research in a competitive environment.

We offer:

• A contract linked to the project “Superval” ending on 31 October 2026
• Remuneration according to individual’s qualification/experience.
• Annual salary split in twelve monthly payments
• Incorporation: 15/07/2025

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)