"Postdoctoral Researcher in Synthesis and Functionalization of Magnetic Nanoparticles"

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with expertise in the synthesis and functionalization of magnetic nanoparticles. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with diverse wet-chemical approaches, e.g. sol-gel, thermal decomposition, and hydrothermal synthesis, for producing nanomaterials with controlled size, shape, and surface chemistry. This role involves developing novel nanostructures, tailoring their surface functionality for heavy metals removal.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate is expected to:

• Design and synthesize magnetic nanoparticles using different wet-chemical approaches such as sol-gel, thermal decomposition, co-precipitation, and hydrothermal synthesis.
• Develop protocols for nanoparticle surface functionalization and stabilization with polymers, ligands, or biomolecules.
• Characterize nanomaterials using advanced techniques (XRD, TEM, SEM, VSM, FTIR, DLS, XPS, etc.) to confirm structural, morphological, and magnetic properties.
• Optimize synthesis routes for reproducibility, scalability, and performance tailored to target applications.
• Collaborate with process engineers, material scientists, and application specialists to integrate nanoparticles into functional systems.
• Prepare papers for publication in leading journals and/or contribute to the dissemination at national/international conferences, workshops and meetings.
• Provide the research projects team with regular updates on research development, progress, and results.
• Support if required, the development of proposals for research funding.
• Contribute to the supervision of Ph.D. and graduate students, mentoring them in their research activities.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Science, Nanotechnology, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong expertise in wet-chemical synthesis methods for nanomaterials (sol-gel, thermal decomposition, hydrothermal, co-precipitation, etc.).
• Proven experience in functionalization of nanoparticles for enhanced stability, dispersibility, and controlled surface chemistry.
• Hands-on experience with material characterization tools (e.g., TEM, SEM, XRD, VSM, FTIR, DLS).
• Knowledge of applications of magnetic nanoparticles in areas such as drug delivery, imaging, catalysis, or environmental remediation is a plus.
• Strong problem-solving skills, ability to work independently, and effective communication skills.
• Familiar with risk assessment and safe working procedures in a chemical laboratory.
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written) in English.
• Good publication track record in peer-reviewed journals.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary and multicultural team.

Candidature submission

Applicants should submit:

1. Cover letter outlining research experience, achievements and stating research interests.
2. Curriculum Vitae.
3. List of publications.
4. Name and contact information of three referees who are not current UM6P faculty.