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 ERC-StG PhotoSwim.

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: We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher with expertise in organic synthesis and/or polymer chemistry to develop hybrid photoactive systems. The project will combine molecular design, synthesis and materials assembly to create organic and polymer-based systems for light-driven micro/nanomotors and photocatalytic applications. Research will explore how molecular structure and material organization influence photochemical reactivity, motion and interactions, with applications in environmental remediation and energy conversion.

Responsibilities

• Design, synthesize and characterize functional organic molecules and/or polymers with tailored photoactive properties.

• Incorporate photoactive building blocks into particles, supramolecular assemblies or hybrid materials.

• Investigate relationships between molecular structure, material organization and photocatalytic performance.

• Physicochemical and photophysical characterization of nanomotors, with emphasis on energy and charge transfer dynamics between components.

• Analysis of nanomotor motion performance using particle tracking, image processing, and statistical methods.

• Write research reports and scientific articles.

• Present research findings at internal meetings and conferences.

• Collaborate with group members to integrate the developed materials into light-driven microsystems.

• Provide guidance and support for students and team members.

• Contribution to laboratory organization and safety management.

Requirements:

• A PhD in organic chemistry, polymer chemistry, materials chemistry or a closely related field.

• Strong practical expertise in organic synthesis and/or polymer synthesis.

• Experience in the structural and physicochemical characterization of molecules or polymers.

• Experience with organic photocatalysts, functional chromophores—including perylene diimides or BODIPYs—conjugated polymers or supramolecular materials will be valued.

• Knowledge of photochemistry, photophysics or colloidal materials will be an advantage.

• Ability to conduct independent research and collaborate within a multidisciplinary team.

• Excellent communication and organizational skills.

• Strong written and oral communication skills in English.

We offer:

• A full-time contract for 3 years.

• Incorporation: 15/12/2026

• 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 PIIP1– PIIP4 band (28.560€ – 36.720€) 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.

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