Post-doctoral research associate

Polymer nanocomposites (PNCs) are hybrid materials comprising a host polymeric matrix and guest organic or inorganic nanoparticles (NPs). They are paving the path for next-generation smart nanomaterials in energy efficiency and storage, environmental remediation, textile, food and biomedical applications. The incorporation of nano-sized rather than micron-sized fillers deeply affects the NP/polymer interface, the region where the interactions between the two species trigger new properties and enhance the material performance. By applying molecular simulation, we aim at investigating the genesis of the structure-properties relationships that stem from such nanoscopic interactions established at the interface between polymer and nanoparticles and impact the macroscopic response of a polymer nanocomposite. By incorporating responsive NPs, we will study their ability to selectively respond to external fields, the kinetics of this response and the impact on the material's macroscopic rheological, thermal, electrical and barrier properties. 

The selected candidate will carry out computational work, including programming, post-processing, and analysis of results. They will design and run numerical simulations to model equilibrium and dynamics of polymers incorporating anisotropic nanoparticles in the presence of external fields. Specifically, they will use coarse-grained models to study their phase behaviour and dynamical properties by applying Molecular Dynamics simulation. These systems include polymers incorporating nanoparticles that are able to respond, by reorienting, to an external electric field. They will stay abreast of relevant literature advancements and participate in communicating the achieved results at national and international conferences, as well as in drafting scientific articles. They will contribute to undergraduate and postgraduate students' supervision.

We are seeking a highly motivated and talented postdoctoral candidate interested in molecular simulations and statistical mechanics. Applicants should have a PhD in Physics, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering and, ideally, a relevant post-doctoral experience. The following aspects will be highly valued: (1) research undertaken during the PhD ; (2) advanced proficiency in at least one of the following programming languages: Fortran, C/C++, Python; (3) advanced knowledge of software for Molecular Dynamics simulations (e.g., Gromacs); (4) familiarity with the Unix operating system; (5) full proficiency in written and spoken scientific English. International stays and experiences in renowned research groups are desirable.

Applicants will demonstrate valuable experience in (1) molecular simulation of soft systems, particularly Molecular Dynamics; (2) preparation and publication of scientific articles as first or corresponding author; (3) ability to co-supervise undergraduate and/or postgraduate students; and (4) collaborations with international research teams and/or projects. Former postdoctoral experiences will be highly valued, particularly if they have been especially productive and formative. In this case, the degree of independence from the PhD thesis' supervisor will also be considered positively.

Demonstrable ability to work independently and as part of a team. Although English accreditation will be highly valued (ideally C1 or higher), the selected candidates, regardless they hold a language accreditation or not, will anyway be interviewed in English.