Predoctoral Researcher Position to work on Design and Processing of innovative photo(electro)catalysts based on metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and their composites
IMDEA Energy Institute is a Severo Ochoa Centre of Excellence dedicated to conducting research and development (R&D) in the fields of renewable energy and clean energy technologies, while fostering strong partnerships with leading companies in the energy sector (www.energy.imdea.org).
IMDEA Energy is opening a Predoctoral Researcher position for the Advanced Porous Materials Unit, looking for talented and motivated candidates with strong background in Chemistry and Materials Science, for mainly the preparation of photo/electro conductive Metal Organic Frameworks, their characterization and application in the green hydrogen production.
This position is part of the HYDRAGON project (PCI2025-163274), funded by MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 and co-funded by the European Union, under the M-ERA.NET 2024 call for proposals.
Tasks Description:
- Synthesis of squarate-based metal organic frameworks (MOFs) with photo/electroactive properties employing different routes (high-throughput solvothermal, microwaves, etc.) and their composites via different deposition methods (spin coating, spray drying, doctor blade, etc.)
- Synthesis and characterization (e.g. NMR, IR, MS) of polycomplexant modified organic ligands
- Structure doping with metal cations and modified organic ligands; development of novel MOF structures. Application of defect engineering.
- Full structural, physicochemical, spectroscopic and electrochemical characterization of the obtained materials using a large panel of techniques (XRD, IR, gas sorption, TGA, UV-Vis, electronic microscopy, etc.).
- Critical analysis of the results, regular writing of reports and elaborating presentations for active discussion with academic and industrial partners.
- Dissemination and publication of research results in scientific journals.
Madatory:
- Official BSc in Chemistry, Materials Science, or equivalent. Include average grade certificate
- Official MSc in Chemistry, Materials Science, or equivalent (no PhD). Include average grade certificate
- At least 2 years of demonstrated experience in MOF synthesis and characterization (XRD, fluid sorption, spectroscopies, microscopies, TGA, etc.).
Other merits to value:
- Synthesis and characterization of organic compounds (chromatography, NMR, mass spectrometry).
- Knowledge and experience on the characterization of photo/electro conductive materials (e.g. bandgap determination, luminescence).
- Collaboration capacity in multidisciplinary environments and research stays in international centers.
- Publications in high-impact scientific journals and participation in dissemination and communication events (congresses, conferences, workshops).
- Oral and written communication skills in English.
- Motivation to pursue the goals of the project.
- Adequacy of the candidate's training to the requested profile.
- Work experience related to the profile of the job position.
- Knowledge of English.
- Motivation for accomplishing high-quality research.
- Remuneration: Between 22.500€ – 25.400 per year, depending upon qualification and expertise.
*The contract includes all the benefits of the Spanish Public Health and Social Security System.
- Contract: One year, with the possibility of annual renewal
IMDEA Energía, Móstoles, Madrid
- Certificates of academic titles
- Msc Official Academic title
- Motivation Letter
- Brief proposal
Final decisions will be personally communicated by e-mail to all candidates.
Equal opportunities are guaranteed in the selection process, without any forms of discrimination. Female applicants are encouraged to apply to favor parity in employment.
IMDEA Energy commitment is to guarantee equality in measures to balance personal, family and working life and to promote gender equality.
