Postdoctoral Researcher (Ref: Postdoc 2026-09 JLL/FB)

The Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ) is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to work at the Innovation and Valorisation Laboratory. 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 with experience in preparation of heterogeneous catalysts and electrocatalysis, to work in the set-up of a fully autonomous electrochemical platform at the Innovation and Valorisation Laboratory, in collaboration with the research group of Prof. Julio Lloret-Fillol, for a period of 3 years funded by the Severo Ochoa project CEX2024-001469-S (MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033).

Responsibilities

· Design, assembly and operating an automated process for the preparation of electrode-supported electrocatalysts suitable for the reduction of CO2 into formic acid.

· Integration of the catalyst preparation with a robotic platform to evaluate catalyst performance.

· Implementation of algorithms and machine learning tools to automatise the electrocatalyst preparation and evaluation of its performance.

· Writing reports and delivering result presentations in group meetings.

· Complete documentation of results.

· Maintenance of laboratory equipment.

Requirements

· Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Sciences, or related equivalent disciplines.

· Proven experience in electrochemistry and catalyst preparation.

· Proven track record in characterisation of heterogeneous catalysts, preferentially supported or nanostructured catalysts.

· 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

· Experience in automation and robotics.

· Use of AI tools for laboratory synthesis integration.

· Programming or scripting skills.

· Good communication skills.

We offer

· A full-time contract for 3 years linked to the Severo Ochoa project CEX2024-001469-S funded by MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033.

· Incorporation: Immediately.

· 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 PTIP1– PTIP3 band (28.840€ – 33.990€) based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience.

· Flexible 37.5 hours working week

· Free parking available at our facilities.

· Continuous training plan to support your professional development.

· Good connection to public transportation networks.

· Facilities with spacious areas, abundant natural light, and a functional, well‑designed environment aimed at enhancing people’s wellbeing.

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.

The interview will last approximately one hour. During the first 20 minutes, you will be asked to provide a short presentation about your background as a researcher (5 min) and the main focus of your research (15 min).

Please note that the interview will be conducted in English.

The evaluation and selection process carried out under this call will observe the principles of the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA), signed in San Francisco, California, on December 16, 2012 (https://sfdora.org/read).

For further information, you can visit our HR Excellence in Research page at: HR Excellence in Research (iciq.org)

Severo Ochoa project CEX2024-001469-S (MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033)