Postdoctoral Researcher (Ref: Postdoc 2026-03 LE)

The Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ) is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Escobar research group. This position will be co-funded by the Knowledge Generation Project PID2024-157787NA-I00 funded by MCIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 /FEDER,UE and the Severo Ochoa Centers of Excellence Grant CEX2024-001469-S funded by 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/).

Description of the project: The research group of Dr. Escobar is seeking a highly talented and motivated national or international postdoctoral researcher. The candidate will synthetize and characterize hybrid systems based on synthetic host-guest complexes and biological oligomers, such as oligo(deoxy)nucleotides and oligopeptides. The candidate will also investigate the self-assembly properties of these hybrid systems, including secondary structure formation and stability, as well as explore their potential biomedical applications, such as biomarker sensing and drug delivery.

Responsibilities

• Synthesis and characterization of hybrid oligomers, and use of a wide range of techniques to study their properties and functions.

• Assist in the training and day-to-day supervision of students’ projects and contribute to the development of their research skills.

• Write progress reports and draft manuscripts for scientific publication.

• Assist in manuscript revision and in the preparation of research project proposals.

• Present research findings at group meetings and national/international conferences.

• Participate in outreach activities.

Requirements:

• PhD in Chemistry or a closely related field at the time that the contract begins.

• Less than 3 years of previous postdoctoral experience.

• Expertise in multistep organic synthesis.

• Experience in chromatography and spectroscopic techniques.

• Experience in organic chemistry, supramolecular chemistry, and/or chemical biology.

• Demonstrated experience in writing and publishing research results in high-impact and peer-reviewed scientific journals.

• Ability to take initiative and responsibility in the development of research projects.

• Proficiency in English, both written and spoken.

• Reliability and commitment to meeting deadlines.

We offer:

• A 3-year full-time contract.

• Remuneration according to individual’s qualification/experience.

• Annual salary split in twelve monthly payments.

• Incorporation: September-October 2026.

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)

Project PID2024-157787NA-I00 funded by MCIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 /FEDER,UE

Severo Ochoa Centers of Excellence Grant CEX2024-001469-S funded by MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033