Postdoctoral Position in Material Science

Laminated glass finds increasing application in automotive and building sectors, yet its end-of-life management poses challenges for recycling. Existing recycling techniques are energy-intensive, and do not allow re-use of glass for window applications, leading to limited adoption and a significant portion of laminated glass ending up in landfills. Within a recently awarded project that brings together a strong and dynamic consortium involving two research institutes with a broad experience in material development and all parts of the laminated glass supply chain, we will develop novel nanoparticles with tailored magnetic properties for on demand lamination and delamination of safety glass.

What are you going to do

For this project we are looking for an enthusiastic post-doc with a strong background in inorganic nanomaterials and solid-state chemistry willing to work on a multidisciplinary project in Amsterdam and in collaboration with research organisations and industry. In Amsterdam you will be based within the Functional Materials Group at the Van ‘t Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS), one of the research institutes of the University of Amsterdam. You will also be connected with the Research Priority Area Sustainable Chemistry, focused on researching and developing sustainable materials and processes.

You will/tasks:

• Synthesise and characterise novel nanoparticles using both liquid- and gas-phase synthesis methods;
• Identify the optimal synthesis conditions and select appropriate method for the surface functionalisation of nanoparticles for their integration in polymer matrixes;
• Characterise nanoparticles using spectroscopic and surface characterisation techniques;
• Perform structure-property correlations and unravel the physical and chemical characteristics that determine the functional properties of novel magnetic nanoparticles;
• Report and present your work-progress on a regular basis to the research partners and stakeholders within this project;
• Participate actively in the research activities of the Functional Materials group.

What do we require?

• A PhD degree in Chemistry or Material Science with focus on inorganic nanomaterials;
• Experience with synthesis and characterisation of nanomaterials supported by a PhD thesis in a related topic;
• Interest in advanced characterisation methods and affinity for innovations towards sustainable solutions;
• A creative mindset, excellent analytical and communication skills and a demonstrated ability to work both independently and in collaboratively in a team environment;
• A good team spirit and like to work in an interdisciplinary and internationally oriented environment;
• Excellent written and spoken communication skills in English.

Our offer

A temporary contract for 38 hours per week, preferably starting as soon as possible, but latest on January 1st 2025, for the duration of 12 months. 
The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between € 3,345 - € 5,278 (scale 10). This does not include 8% holiday allowance and 8,3% year-end allowance. The UFO profile Researcher 4 is applicable. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities is applicable.

Besides the salary and a vibrant and challenging environment at Science Park we offer you multiple fringe benefits:
•    232 holiday hours per year (based on fulltime) and extra holidays between Christmas and 1 January;
•    multiple courses to follow from our Teaching and Learning Centre;
•    multiple courses on topics such as time management, handling stress and an online learning platform with 100+ different courses;
•    7 weeks birth leave (partner leave) with 100% salary;
•    partly paid parental leave;
•    the possibility to set up a workplace at home;
•    a pension at ABP for which UvA pays two third part of the contribution;
•    the possibility to follow courses to learn Dutch.
Are you curious to read more about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits, take a look here.

About us

The Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS) is one of eight institutes of the Faculty of Science. HIMS performs internationally recognized chemistry and molecular research, curiosity driven as well as application driven. This is done in close cooperation with the chemical, flavor & food, medical and high-tech industries. Research is organized into four themes: Analytical Chemistry, Computational Chemistry, Synthesis & Catalysis and Molecular Photonics.

The Synthesis & Catalysis encompasses organic synthesis and all aspects of catalysis, including homogeneous catalysis, heterogeneous catalysis, biocatalysis, organocatalysis, and catalysis engineering. Projects range from fundamental to applied research, with strong valorization aspects. Within this theme, The Functional Materials Group focuses on developing fundamental knowledge and materials that enable low-energy routes for the synthesis of chemicals, efficient molecular separations and selective chemical sensing. 

The University of Amsterdam is the Netherlands' largest university, offering the widest range of academic programmes. At the UvA, 30,000 students, 6,000 staff members and 3,000 PhD candidates study and work in a diverse range of fields, connected by a culture of curiosity.

The Faculty of Science has a student body of around 8,000, as well as 1,800 members of staff working in education, research or support services. Researchers and students at the Faculty of Science are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works, be it elementary particles, the birth of the universe or the functioning of the brain. 

To work at the University of Amsterdam is to work in a discerning, independent, creative, innovative and international climate characterized by an open atmosphere and a genuine engagement with the city of Amsterdam and society. Here you can read more about working at the University of Amsterdam.

Questions

Do you have any questions, or do you require additional information? Please contact:

• Dr. Stefania Grecea: s.grecea@uva.nl
• +31 (0)20 525 7245

Job application

The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer. We prioritise diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. We value a spirit of enquiry and perseverance, provide the space to keep asking questions, and promote a culture of curiosity and creativity.

Do you recognize yourself in the job profile? Then we look forward to receiving your application by December 31st, 2024 at latest. You may apply online by using the link below.

Applications in .pdf should include:
•    a curriculum vitae including the list of publications (please put in the months and not just years when referring to your education and work experience;
•    a short overview (max 2 pages A4) of specific past research contributions;
•    a letter of motivation (max 2 pages A4);
•    a reference (email, phone number) to the direct supervisor in the previous academic position.

We will recruit until the position is filled and close the position when a suitable candidate is found.

A knowledge security check can be part of the selection procedure.

(for details: National knowledge security guidelines)

The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer. We prioritize diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. We value a spirit of enquiry and perseverance, provide the space to keep asking questions, and promote a culture of curiosity and creativity.

No agencies please.