Postdoctoral Researcher (Ref: Postdoc 2025-06 KV)

Job title:

Postdoctoral Researcher (Ref: Postdoc 2025-06 KV)

Company:

ICIQ

Job description

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 Consolidación Investigadora (CNS2024-154696), financiada por MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 y por la Unión Europea NextGenerationEU/PRTR.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: This project investigates the motion behaviors of light-driven micromotors under structured light fields generated by spatial light modulators (SLMs). By modulating light intensity, phase, and polarization, we aim to precisely control micromotor trajectories, self-assembly, and collective dynamics. Combining numerical simulations and experimental studies, we will explore programmable motion strategies for applications in environmental sensing, targeted transport and therapeutic approaches.Responsibilities

• Perform experimental studies on micromotor propulsion, trajectory control, and self-assembly.
• Analyze micromotor dynamics using particle tracking, image processing, and statistical methods.
• Develop and optimize optical setups using spatial light modulators for dynamic light shaping.
• Design and conduct numerical simulations to model micromotor motion under structured light fields.
• Write reports and scientific articles.
• Present research findings at internal meetings and conferences
• Provide guidance and support to students and team members.
• Manage and monitor lab safety.

Requirements:

• PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, Optics, Photonics, or a related field.
• Knowledge of colloidal systems, active matter, or micromotors.
• Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, or LabVIEW for automation, simulations, and data analysis.
• Experience in image processing and particle tracking (ImageJ, Trackpy, or similar).
• Experience in microparticle/nanoparticle manipulation using optical and/or optofluidic techniques.
• Familiarity with spatial light modulators, digital micromirror devices, and microfluidics.
• Ability to develop custom scripts for optical simulations and experimental control.
• Expertise in beam shaping, interferometry, and adaptive optics.
• Experience with Raman spectroscopy and Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) is a plus, particularly for molecular sensing and chemical detection at the microscale.
• Knowledge of plasmon-enhanced optical effects in nanostructured materials is beneficial.

We offer:

• A 3-year full-time contract.
• Remuneration according to individual’s qualification/experience.
• Annual salary split in twelve monthly payments
• Incorporation: 05/05/2025

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

Sat, 22 Mar 2025 02:01:15 GMT

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