Multiple Postdoc and PhD Opportunities in Sustainable Soft Robotics, Energy Harvesting, Surface Chemistry, and Plant-Hybrid Systems

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Multiple Postdoc and PhD Opportunities in Sustainable Soft Robotics, Energy Harvesting, Surface Chemistry, and Plant-Hybrid Systems

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Job description

Offer DescriptionProject Overview
These positions are offered within the framework of the ERC-funded project EpiC (Grant Agreement No. ), which aims to advance cutting-edge research at the intersection of soft robotics, energy harvesting, materials chemistry, and plant biology. By integrating sustainable design principles with novel materials and hybrid biological-robotic systems, EpiC seeks to develop next-generation technologies that address urgent challenges in energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, and agricultural innovation.Position DetailsWe invite applications for Postdoctoral Researchers and PhD Candidates in the following research areas: * Sustainable Soft Robotics

• Design and fabrication of soft robotic platforms using environmentally friendly materials
• Microfluidics and bio-inspired or bio-hybrid actuation, sensing, and control strategies
• Integration of soft robotics with living organisms for ecological monitoring and sustainable manufacturing
• Energy Harvesting

• Development of novel materials and systems for capturing and converting ambient energy
• Investigation of self-powered sensors and devices for long-term sustainability
• Exploration of scalable, sustainable, and effective energy harvesting solutions for environmental monitoring and soft robotics
• Surface Chemistry

• Synthesis, characterization, and functionalization of advanced materials for energy conversion
• Development of surface coatings for enhanced adhesion, sensing, or environmental resilience
• Application of chemical methods to optimize interfaces in robotic and plant-hybrid systems
• Plant-Hybrid Systems

• Merging plant biology with engineered systems for adaptive, responsive technologies
• Studying plant growth, communication, and stress responses in controlled environments
• Co-designing plant-robot interfaces to improve resource efficiency and ecosystem health

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent research aligned with the EpiC project’s objectives
• Collaborate across disciplines, integrating approaches from robotics, materials science, chemistry, and plant biology
• Publish findings in high-impact journals and present at international conferences
• Mentor and guide junior researchers (for Postdoctoral roles)
• Contribute to lab operations and maintain rigorous safety and ethical standards

QualificationsPostdoctoral Candidates should hold (or be near completion of) a PhD in one or more of the following areas (or a closely related field):

• Robotics, Mechatronics, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering
• Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Surface Chemistry
• Plant Biology, Bioengineering, Biotechnology

PhD Candidates should hold (or expect to obtain) a Master’s degree in a related discipline. Strong motivation and a demonstrated ability to work in an interdisciplinary environment are essential.Preferred Skills:

• Previous research experience in relevant techniques (e.g., soft materials fabrication, energy conversion, chemical surface modification, plant physiology)
• Proficiency in experimental design, data analysis, and/or computational modeling
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
• Team-oriented mindset and problem-solving capabilities

What We Offer

• Fully funded positions (competitive salary in accordance with institutional and EU guidelines)
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities in robotics, materials characterization, high-resolution electrical characterization, and plant sciences
• Interdisciplinary research environment with opportunities for collaboration across multiple fields
• Professional development through international conferences, workshops, and training events
• Supportive mentoring to foster career growth and innovation

Application ProcedureHow to Apply:
Please submit your expression of interest with the following documents in PDF format to the contact email listed below, using the subject line “Application: EpiC Postdoc/PhD – [Research Area]”: * Cover Letter detailing your motivation, relevant experience, and specific interest in the EpiC project research area(s)

• Curriculum Vitae including your educational background, publications, and any relevant research or technical experience
• Contact details of at least two references (for Postdoc applicants, please provide referees who can attest to your postdoctoral readiness; for PhD applicants, academic advisors or supervisors are preferred)

Application Review:

• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Early submission is encouraged.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an online or in-person interview.

Contact InformationFor inquiries about the positions or the application process, please contact:
Prof. Dr. Fabian MederThe BioRobotics Institute @ Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies, Pisa, Italy
Contact email:Further information on the ERC project EpiC can be found here:is a public university institute – with special autonomy – working in the field of applied sciences: Robotics, Industrial and Information Engineering, Agricultural Sciences and Plant Biotechnology, Economics and Management, Law, Political Sciences, and Medicine. The School promotes the internationalisation of didactics and research with innovative paths in the fields of university education, scientific research and advanced training. Among its constituent institutes, the , established in 2011, focuses on advanced education, cutting-edge research, and innovation. It has developed expertise in various areas of biorobotics and bionics, biohybrid systems, bioinspired robotics, sustainability, and medical robotics.Where to apply E-mailfabian.meder@santannapisa.itRequirementsResearch Field All Education Level PhD or equivalentResearch Field All Education Level Master Degree or equivalentLanguages ENGLISH Level ExcellentAdditional InformationBenefitsDetails of the contract, including remuneration and duration, will be determined based on the researcher’s experience and institutional requirements.Work Location(s)Number of offers available 1 Company/Institute Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies Country Italy City Pisa GeofieldContact CityPisa WebsiteStreetVia Cardinale Maffi 27 E-Mailfabian.meder@santannapisa.it Phone+39050882615STATUS: EXPIREDShare this page

Expected salary

Location

Pisa

Job date

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 05:35:03 GMT

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