Postdoctoral Researcher (Postdoc 2025-12 KV)

Job title:

Postdoctoral Researcher (Postdoc 2025-12 KV)

Company:

ICIQ

Job description

Postdoctoral Researcher (Ref: Postdoc 2025-12 KV)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 the European Union (ERC 101248363 – PhotoSERS).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 master, PhD students and postdoctoral researchers (full details on ).Description of the project: The project focuses on developing an innovative sensing platform that integrates self-propelled microswimmers, microfluidic systems, and optical detection techniques to enable highly sensitive identification of emerging environmental contaminants in water. The goal is to create a portable lab-scale device capable of selective pollutant capture and real-time analysis, with strong potential for future commercialization and application in environmental monitoringResponsibilities

• Design, synthesis, and characterization of photoactive microswimmers, including polymer fabrication and nanoparticle decoration.
• Development and optimization of surface modification strategies for selective target recognition.
• Perform SERS measurements and data analysis.
• Assembly and validation of integrated microfluidic detection systems.
• Performance testing in controlled and real environmental samples.
• Preparation of reports, and contribution to scientific publications.
• Support of technology transfer activities and collaboration with external partners.
• Participation in regular project meetings and interdisciplinary discussions.
• Provide guidance and support to students and team members.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety protocols.

Requirements:

• PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Nanotechnology, or Chemical Engineering.
• Proven experience in Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) and plasmonic nanoparticle synthesis and functionalization.
• Experience working with PFAS detection or environmental pollutant analysis is a strong asset.
• Knowledge of active matter, micromotors, or colloidal systems is highly valued.
• Expertise in surface modification techniques for selective target recognition is a plus.
• Familiarity with microfluidic device design and testing.
• Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, COMSOL, or similar for simulation and data analysis.
• Hands-on experience with particle tracking, image processing, and electrical field analysis.
• High motivation, independence, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work in an interdisciplinary environment.
• Excellent communication skills in English (spoken and written).

We offer:

• A 3-year full-time contract.
• Remuneration according to individual’s qualification/experience.
• Annual salary split in twelve monthly payments
• Incorporation: 01/11/2025

OTM-R principles in the selection processesICIQ 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 ProcessICIQ’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:About the Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)ICIQ is a public foundation dedicated to chemical research aimed at addressing global challenges such as the climate emergency and human health. Recognised with two Severo Ochoa Centers of Excellence accreditations since 2014, the centre hosts 250 researchers distributed across 19 research groups focused on sustainable catalysis, renewable energies, and decarbonization, as well as molecular medicine. These groups drive frontier research using both computational and experimental tools. ICIQ scientists have secured a total of 26 projects funded by the European Research Council (ERC), and nine of them are ICREA professors (Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies). Located in Tarragona, ICIQ works closely with industry to enhance its competitiveness, fostering the development of innovative applications and the training of qualified professionals. As a CERCA centre and a member of the Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), ICIQ is committed to sustainable and equitable development, open science, and the social impact of research. More information at © 2025. All rights reserved.

Expected salary

Location

Tarragona

Job date

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 22:29:46 GMT

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