Post-doc in Energy storage in molecules to carry out molecular self-assembly investigations directed at the ensemble behaviour of molecules
A postdoc position within the interdisciplinary project ESiM (Energy Storage in Molecules) funded by the Pathfinder Open action (HORIZON EUROPE) is available in the Surface Science group at the Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials.
The goal of the ESiM project is to create the scientific basis for a radically new technology addressing the pressing challenges of scalable clean energy storage. The ESiM strategy is to use the conformational degrees of freedom of organic molecules, and to create dense molecular arrays of scalable dimensions on a surface to avoid the limits of battery technology based on the flow of ions and on environmentally harmful substances.
The aim of the present postdoc position is to carry out molecular self-assembly investigations directed at the ensemble behaviour of molecules with scanning tunnelling microscopy/spectroscopy (STM/S) measurements at temperatures between 5 K and room temperature under ultrahigh vacuum conditions as well as under ambient conditions. These findings will be crucial for the fabrication of a basic solid state device based on cantilever technology (studied in the partner group at CNRS Toulouse) since the cantilever surface will be coated with a molecular monolayer. In particular, the STM investigations should shed light on the rotational and conformational states of the molecules at different temperatures and also in dependence of their environment. With the help of the tip, switching of such a rotational or conformational state shall be performed with the goal to store energy within such a manipulated state and to use it for the fabrication of a basic solid state device.
Qualifications
We are looking for a motivated candidate with/ who is;
- a PhD, obtained no longer than 4 years ago, in Physics, Material Sciences, Nanoscience or Physical Chemistry
- experience in (low temperature) scanning probe microscopy and in handling of ultrahigh vacuum
- a passion for science and excellent communication skills
- the ability to write scientific papers and deliver presentations
- a good command of English (oral and written)
- enthusiastic and a team player.
Organisation
Founded in 1614, the University of Groningen enjoys an international reputation as a dynamic and innovative center of higher education offering high-quality teaching and research. Flexible study programmes and academic career opportunities in a wide variety of disciplines encourage the 36,000 students and researchers alike to develop their own individual talents. As one of the best research universities in Europe, the University of Groningen has joined forces with other top universities and networks worldwide to become a truly global center of knowledge. The Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE) is the largest faculty within the University. We offer first-rate education and research in a wide range of science and engineering disciplines. Our community has an open and informal character with students and staff from around the world.
Conditions of employment
The University of Groningen offers in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities:
- a salary from a minimum of € 3,420 gross per month up to a maximum of € 4,490 gross per month (salary scale 10) based on a full-time position and dependent on qualification and work experience
- a holiday allowance of 8% gross annual income
- an 8.3% end-of-year bonus and participation in a pension scheme for employees
- a personal budget of € 1,000 per year that is dedicated for additional training and career activities
- career services for partners of new faculty members moving to Groningen.
The successful candidate will first be offered a temporary position of one year with the option of renewal for another year. Prolongation of the contract is contingent on sufficient progress in the first year.
The preferred starting date is September 2022 but can be negotiated. Interviews will be held as soon as possible.
Application
You may apply for this position until 30 May 11:59pm / before 31 May 2022 Dutch local time (CET) by means of the application form (click on “Apply” below on the advertisement on the university website).
The application should contain:
- cover letter outlining motivation, qualifications, experience, and career goals
- curriculum vitae
- contact details of 3 people who can provide information on your suitability for the position (thesis supervisors etc.)
- in case the PhD has not yet been obtained, proof of thesis submission or an indication of when the thesis is expected to be submitted.
The University of Groningen strives to be a university in which students and staff are respected and feel at home, regardless of differences in background, experiences, perspectives, and identities. We believe that working on our core values of inclusion and equality are a joint responsibility and we are constructively working on creating a socially safe environment. Diversity among students and staff members enriches academic debate and contributes to the quality of our teaching and research. We therefore invite applicants from underrepresented groups in particular to apply. For more information, see also our diversity policy webpage: https://www.rug.nl/(…)rsity-and-inclusion/
Our selection procedure follows the guidelines of the Recruitment code (NVP): https://www.nvp-hrnetwerk.nl/sollicitatiecode/ and European Commission’s European Code of Conduct for recruitment of researchers: https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/jobs/charter/code
We provide career services for partners of new faculty members moving to Groningen.
Unsolicited marketing is not appreciated.
Information
For information you can contact:
- Prof. Dr. M.A. Stöhr, m.a.stohr@rug.nl
- Dr. A. Grubisic-Cabo, a.grubisic-cabo@rug.nl
Please do not use the e-mail address(es) above for applications.