Postdoctoral Researcher | Supramolecular NanoChemistry and Materials Group
Job Description
The Supramolecular NanoChemistry and Materials Group (NANOUP) at ICN2, Bellaterra (Barcelona), is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher in Organic Chemistry to work on the ERC-funded project Clip-off Chemistry: Design and Synthesis of New Materials via Programmable Disassembly of Reticular Materials. The role focuses on nanomaterial synthesis, supramolecular assembly, and reticular chemistry within one of Europe’s leading nanoscience research centers.
Job Details
| Title | Postdoctoral Researcher – Supramolecular NanoChemistry and Materials Group |
|---|---|
| Organization | Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2) |
| Research Group | Supramolecular NanoChemistry and Materials Group (NANOUP) |
| Location | Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain |
| Contract Type | Full-time (37.5 hours/week), Temporary (1 year) |
| Start Date | As soon as possible |
| Funding Source | ERC Advanced Grant (GA 101019003 CLIPOFF-CHEM, H2020 Programme) |
| Research Field | Organic Chemistry, Supramolecular Chemistry, Nanomaterials |
| Application Deadline | Applications reviewed continuously |
| Workplace | ICN2 Campus, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona |
| Apply Link | Apply via ICN2 Careers Portal |
About the Institute and Group
The Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2) is a Severo Ochoa Center of Excellence (2014–2026), and a global leader in nanoscale research and innovation. With 19 research groups and over 400 staff, ICN2 drives advances in materials science, nanofabrication, and quantum technologies.
The Supramolecular NanoChemistry and Materials Group (NANOUP), led by Prof. Daniel Maspoch, pioneers molecular assembly at the nanoscale, integrating chemistry, materials science, and nanotechnology to create functional architectures and devices. The ERC project “Clip-off Chemistry” aims to revolutionize reticular chemistry by developing programmable pathways for disassembling complex materials into novel molecular structures.
Role Summary
The selected postdoctoral researcher will join an interdisciplinary team advancing Clip-off Chemistry — a cutting-edge approach to transform crystalline frameworks into tailored molecular systems through controlled bond cleavage. The work will combine organic synthesis, reticular materials engineering, and nanostructure characterization.
Key Responsibilities
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Synthesize and characterize reticular materials and their derivatives.
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Perform Clip-off synthesis to generate new molecular compounds from these frameworks.
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Participate in the preparation of scientific reports, publications, and presentations at conferences.
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Supervise and mentor PhD students and junior researchers.
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Contribute to European collaborative activities, project meetings, and outreach initiatives.
Required Qualifications
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PhD in Organic Chemistry (essential; applications without this qualification will not be considered).
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Proven experience in organic synthesis and molecular characterization.
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Proficiency in English (spoken and written).
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Strong commitment, scientific curiosity, and teamwork skills.
Desired Competences
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Familiarity with reticular chemistry and supramolecular design.
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Experience in nanomaterials or functional molecular architectures.
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Ability to collaborate across disciplines (chemistry, materials, and nanoscience).
Employment Conditions
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Full-time, 37.5 hours/week
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Contract duration: 1 year (renewable depending on funding and performance)
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Location: ICN2, Bellaterra (Barcelona), Spain
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Salary: Competitive, based on experience and qualifications
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Benefits:
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Life insurance and relocation support
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28 days of annual leave
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Flexible work schedule and compensation plan (including health insurance, childcare, and training options)
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Professional development programs: language training, mentoring, and wellbeing initiatives
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International and interdisciplinary work environment
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About the Project – Clip-off Chemistry
This ERC Advanced Grant project, Clip-off Chemistry (GA 101019003), introduces a transformative paradigm in materials science — programmable disassembly. By selectively cleaving bonds within reticular materials, the project creates new pathways for synthesizing nanostructured molecular frameworks with novel electronic, catalytic, and optical properties.
The research will bridge supramolecular chemistry, nanostructure design, and materials innovation—paving the way for next-generation functional materials and nano-enabled devices.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via the ICN2 official careers portal:
👉 https://jobs.icn2.cat/en
Required documents:
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Cover Letter
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Full Curriculum Vitae (including contact details)
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Two Reference Letters or Referee Contacts
📅 Applications will be reviewed continuously until the position is filled.
Equal Opportunity Statement
ICN2 is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity employment, including individuals with disabilities, in accordance with Royal Decree 1/2015 (Article 59). All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply regardless of gender, origin, or background.
Reference Links
Disclaimer
This article is a summarized and SEO-optimized version of the official posting by the Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2). Applicants are advised to verify the latest details on the official ICN2 website before applying.
