The Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ) is seeking a postdoctoral researcher.

This position will be funded by the Severo Ochoa project CEX2024-001469-S (MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033).

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 masters, PhD students and postdoctoral researchers (full details on http://www.iciq.org/).

ICIQ is looking for a postdoctoral researcher to work in a collaborative project led by Prof. Berrocal and Prof. Prieto-Simón. The project aims to deliver diagnostic solutions addressing antimicrobial resistance, with a special focus on supporting therapeutic guidance of bacterial biofilm-associated infections. To this purpose, new sensing platforms based on polymer-functionalized nanopores will be developed to monitor bacterial biofilm metabolic activity, and to quickly identify β-lactamase activity.

Responsibilities

· Read and review literature and undertake relevant research

· Fabrication and site-specific functionalization of multi-layered porous silicon structures

· Covalent functionalization of porous silicon with polymer brushes via (controlled) radical polymerization

· Synthesis of small molecules to be used for electrochemical sensing applications

· Design and optimization of multiplexed electrochemical biosensing strategies

· Optimization of protocols to analyze biological samples

· Characterization of functionalized surfaces by chemical (FT-IR, Raman, X Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, Water Contact Angle) and microscopy (SEM, confocal) techniques

· Assist the supervisors in the daily supervision of PhD students

· Production of written reports and presentations to update the group/supervisor

· Maintain professional and ethical standards in the conduct of research, especially in observing research and intellectual property protocols established by the ICIQ

Requirements

· PhD in Chemistry or Materials Science

· Level of English equal to B2 or higher

· Prior experience with polymer and/or small molecule synthesis

· Sound knowledge and expertise in electrochemical biosensing, surface analysis and biological assays

· Prior experience in multidisciplinary projects

· Ability to work independently and in a team

· High level written communication and presentation skills, as well as demonstrated experience in producing high quality technical and scientific documentation independently for dissemination to audiences of both experts and laypersons.

Valued qualities

· Open-mindedness and willingness to learn new techniques at the interface between chemistry and biology

· Strong organizational and decisional skills

· Ability to learn quickly

· Strong motivation to pursue interdisciplinary research

We offer

· A full-time contract linked to the Severo Ochoa project CEX2024-001469-S funded by MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033

· Incorporation: 01/06/2026

· An international and dynamic environment within a multidisciplinary team

· Annual salary split into 12 monthly payments

· Remuneration aligned with the company’s salary policy, within the 28.560€ (PIIP1) - 36.720€ (PIIP4) based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience

· Free parking available at our facilities

· Continuous training plan to support your professional development

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)