The Postdoc candidate will work on the FET Proactive Project entitled "Artificial Leaf" (“A-LEAF” - FETPROACT-2016 ref. 732840) targeting to design a photo-electro-catalytic cell for direct conversion of water and carbon dioxide into chemicals and oxygen using exclusively solar energy in the area of modelling.

Candidate profile:

We are looking for a highly motivated, experienced researcher with a PhD in Physics (Condensed Matter), Materials Science, or Chemistry (Physical or Theoretical).

Familiarity with DFT, experience in computational chemistry, proficiency with Unix computing environments and experience in using high-performance supercomputing facilities are required.

Strong oral and written communication skills in English^* are definitely a must. The ability to publish the results of research in scientific journals is highly desirable.

S/he will be in charge of supervising PhD students and will often work independently on some of the tasks in the project.

We offer:

A challenging job in an international and multidisciplinary environment.

The position is for one year extendable to two years if results are satisfactory.

Approximate gross salary: 26,000 – 28,000 euro / year (depending on background and qualifications).

How to apply:

Applications should be sent to: [email protected] (please write NL-ALEAF as reference in the subject, please do not attach papers, theses etc). Applications need to include: a motivation letter, CV (with a list a list of publications, presentations in conferences, courses taken and language qualifications), PhD diploma, and the names and contact details of two people willing to write a letter of recommendation for the candidate.

The evaluation of candidates will start IMMEDIATELY. We would prefer to have your application before the end of November 2016. Starting date: January 2017

You should only apply if:

-You are a talented, highly motivated researcher.

-You are looking for an exciting and ambitious project to work on.

-You are a creative thinker and a problem solver.

-You enjoy working both individually and as part of a team.

Women scientists are encouraged to apply. Candidates who meet the requirements and can start ASAP will stand a very good chance of getting the position.

About us:

Prof. Nuria Lopez’ group, ICIQ’s "Theoretical Heterogeneous Catalysis Group”, focuses on the use of atomistic simulations to understand the mechanisms that govern chemical processes in heterogeneous catalysis. The analysis of reaction networks, activity and selectivity issues and the final tests on the stability of the potential materials are fundamental to establish a solid background to determine when they can be considered as a catalyst candidate for a given chemical transformation. The group collaborates both with several experimental groups and with industry, and uses massive computational resources, as those provided by the RES-BSC as well as the group’s own computing resources at ICIQ.

More info on the group: http://www.iciq.org/research/research_group/prof-nuria-lopez/

                                        http://www.iciq.org/research/research_group/prof-nuria-lopez/section/about_prof/  

More info on Tarragona: http://www.tarragonaturisme.cat/   

* Level of English: B2 (EU); Cambridge exam: CAE (45 – 59) or FCE grade B or C; IELTS 5 - 6.5, TOEFL: 87 to 109; TOEIC: 400-485 (listening), 385-450 (reading)