Postdoctoral Researcher in Advanced Materials Characterization

Postdoctoral Research Fellow in advanced STEM and EELS of exsolution materials

University of Oslo

About the position​ Position as Postdoctoral Research Fellow ​is available at the Department of Physics/Centre for Materials Science and Nanotechnology.  Starting date no later than October 1, 2026. The appointment is a full-time position and is for a period of four years, 25 % of which is dedicated to teaching activities. No one can be appointed for more than one Postdoctoral Research Fellowship at the University of Oslo. Postdoctoral fellows who are appointed for a period of four years are expected to acquire basic pedagogical competency during their fellowship period within the duty component of 25 %. Project description and work tasks​ The Postdoctoral Research Fellow will broadly address exsolution of metal nanoparticles from oxide materials, which show great promise as electrocatalyst for energy conversion technologies. The Postdoctoral Research Fellow will design and characterize materials to elucidate the fundamentals of the exsolution process, including the role of point defects and their interactions, extended defects, strain and more. The primary technique will be scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS), using a newly installed state-of-the-art JEOL Mono ARM instrument. The research activities will also include the use of complimentary macroscopic techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS at synchrotron beam-line facilities. The Postdoctoral Research Fellow will be part of a team of experienced researchers working on related themes within the sections Semiconductor Physics and Quantum Technologies, and Electrochemistry, at the Centre for Materials Science and Nanotechnology (SMN). The main purpose of a postdoctoral fellowship is to provide the candidates with enhanced skills to pursue a scientific top position within or beyond academia. To promote a strategic career path, all postdoctoral research fellows are required to submit a professional development plan no later than one month after commencement of the postdoctoral period. What skills are important in this role?​ The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences has a strategic ambition to be among Europe’s leading communities for research, education and innovation. Candidates for these fellowships will be selected in accordance with this, and expected to be in the upper segment of their class with respect to academic credentials. We are seeking a candidate with extensive experience in utilizing (S)TEM and EELS for studies of the structure and properties of inorganic materials. The successful candidate should have a background in physics, and hold a PhD in solid state physics, materials science, or similar with a preferred expertise in metal oxides. Previous experience with writing custom code for data analysis, data acquisition, or simulation of experiments is a requirement. A good track record in cross-disciplinary research and collaboration will be positively evaluated, in particular if the candidate has shown an ability to combine experiments with theory/modeling. Good communication skills are a prerequisite. Required qualifications:​ • A degree equivalent to a Norwegian doctoral degree in (Solid State) Physics or Materials Science or equivalent. If the degree is not yet formally received, the doctoral dissertation must be submitted for evaluation by the application date. Only applicants with an approved doctoral thesis and public defence are eligible for appointment. • Experience with utilizing (S)TEM and EELS for studies of inorganic materials  • Experience with writing custom code for data acquisition, data analysis, or simulations  • Fluent oral and written communication skills in English Desired qualifications:​ • Experience with and deep understanding of synthesis and characterization of exsolution systems  • Experience with advanced characterization using synchrotron beam-line facilities, e.g., X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) • Fluent oral and written communication skills in a Scandinavian language All candidates and projects will have to undergo a check versus national export, sanctions and security regulations. Candidates may be excluded based on these checks. Primary checkpoints are the Export Control regulation, the Sanctions regulation, and the national security regulation. What are we looking for in you?​ Personal skills:​ • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team • Ability to work precisely in a structured manner and swiftly adapts to new tasks • Good communication and collaboration skills • Positive attitude and the ability to handle hectic periods Employment in the position is based on a comprehensive assessment of all qualification requirements applicable to the position, including personal skills. We can offer you​ • Exciting and meaningful tasks in an organization with an important societal mission, contributing to knowledge development, education, and enlightenment that promote sustainable, fair, and knowledge-based societal development • Committed colleagues in a good working environment • Good welfare schemes. • Opportunity of up to 1.5 hours a week of exercise during working hours.   • A workplace with good development and career opportunities • Postdoctoral development programmes. • Membership in the Statens Pensjonskasse, which is one of Norway's best pension schemes with beneficial mortgages and good insurance schemes • Salary in position as Postdoctoral Fellow, position code 1352 in salary range NOK ​595 000 - 690 000, depending on competence and experience. From the salary, 2 percent is deducted in statutory contributions to the State Pension Fund We need different perspectives in our work​ UiO is an open and internationally oriented comprehensive university that strives to be an inclusive and diverse workplace and academic environment. You can read more about UiO’s work on equality, inclusion, and diversity at uio.no. We fulfill our mission most effectively when we draw upon our variety of experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives. We are looking for great colleagues, could you be the next one? We will do our best to accommodate your needs. Relevant adjustments may include modifications to working hours, task adaptations, digital, technical, or physical adjustments, or other practical measures. If you have an immigrant background, a disability, or CV gaps (Norwegian), we encourage you to indicate this in the job application portal. We always invite at least one qualified candidate from each group for an interview. In this context, disability is defined as an applicant who identifies as having a disability that requires workplace or employment-related accommodations. For more details about the requirements, please refer to the Employer portal (Norwegian). The selections made in the job application portal are used for anonymized statistics that all state employers include in their annual reports.  We especially encourage women to apply. More information about gender equality initiatives at UiO can be found here.  We hope you will apply for the position with us. How to apply​ The application must include:​ • A cover letter describing the motivation for applying for the position, the aspects of the project that the applicant considers most important, and ideas on how to address the proposed research topics over the course of the project (maximum 2 pages) • CV (summarizing education, positions, pedagogical experience, and other qualifying activity)  • Copies of educational certificates, academic transcript of records  • A complete list of publications and up to 5 academic works that the applicant wishes to be considered by the evaluation committee • Names and contact details of 2-3 references (name, relation to candidate, e-mail and telephone number) Application with attachments must be submitted via our recruitment system Jobbnorge, click "Apply for this job". When applying for the position, we ask you to retrieve your education results from Vitnemålsportalen.no. If your education results are not available through Vitnemålsportalen, we ask you to upload copies of your transcripts or grades. Please note that all documentation must be in English or a Scandinavian language. General information​ The best qualified candidates will be invited for interviews. Please see the guidelines and regulations for appointments to Postdoctoral fellowships at the University of Oslo. If an applicant has applied for and been granted funding for a fulltime research stay abroad while being employed as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow, the employment will be prolonged with the equivalent time as the research stay, but for no longer than of twelve months ( thus extending the employment to a maximum of four years) Applicant lists can be published in accordance with Norwegian Freedom of Information Act § 25. When you apply for a position with us, your name will appear on the public applicant list. It is possible to request to be excluded from this list. You must justify why you want an exemption from publication and we will then decide whether we can grant your request. If we can't, you will hear from us. The University of Oslo has an agreement for all employees, aiming to secure rights to research results a.o.

Postdoc in AI-Driven Design and Modelling of Bio-Based Adhesives

SVERIGES LANTBRUKSUNIVERSITET

Department of Forest Bioeconomy and Technology Do you want to help shape the future of sustainable materials? We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to advance the design of next-generation bio-based adhesives that meet both sustainability targets and industrial performance requirements. In this project, you will combine cutting-edge approaches in polymer science and AI-driven modelling to develop predictive frameworks and high-performance adhesive systems for furniture, construction and packaging industries. You will work at the interface of fundamental science and real-world application, contributing to the transition toward a more sustainable materials economy. If you have a strong research background and a drive for innovation, this position offers an exciting opportunity to take the next step in your academic career! The recruitment is done within the BioGlue-Centre “Competence Centre for Bio-based Adhesives”, which is a Vinnova Competence Centre in Sustainable Industry and Digital Transformation. The vision of the Centre is to significantly reduce the dependency on fossil-based materials in the adhesive industry by developing paradigm-shifting knowledge of bio-based adhesives and becoming a world-leading research environment in Sweden. It is built around a network of top-scientists with expertise in polymer science, adhesives, technology, and sustainability located at the Department of Forest Bioeconomy and Technology at SLU (https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/organisation/departments/department-of-forest-bioeconomy-and-technology/), the Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology at KTH (https://www.kth.se/fpt/fibre-and-polymer-technology-1.778696), and the Department of Forestry and Wood Technology at Linnaeus University (https://lnu.se/en/meet-linnaeus-university/Organisation/faculty-of-technology/meet-the-faculty-of-technology/forestry-and-wood/). The Centre unites 13 companies along the value chain in furniture, packaging and construction sectors that share the same research questions around adhesives and adhesive bonding. About the position The development of bio-based adhesives is currently limited by a lack of predictive understanding of how formulation chemistry translates into material performance. This project addresses this challenge by establishing a data-driven framework for the rational design of high-performance bio-adhesives. As a postdoctoral researcher, you will work on integrating experimental formulation, molecular-level characterization, and machine learning to develop predictive models linking chemical descriptors to adhesive properties. The work includes the development of a structured formulation library, systematic mapping of key performance indicators, and the implementation of data-driven optimization strategies to identify high-performing systems. Machine learning approaches will be used to uncover structure-property relationships and guide formulation design. The project combines experimental and computational approaches and includes validation of selected formulations on industrially relevant substrates. You will collaborate closely with academic and industrial partners and contribute to the development of a transferable predictive toolbox for next-generation sustainable adhesives. Your profile We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with a doctoral degree obtained within the last three years in materials science, polymer science, chemistry, chemical engineering, or a closely related field. The ideal candidate has strong expertise in polymer formulation and structure-property relationships, particularly in the modification and crosslinking of bio-based or functional polymers for adhesive or related applications. Experience with advanced material characterisation techniques is expected. A strong interest in data-driven research is essential. Experience with modelling approaches, data analysis, or machine learning applied to materials or chemical systems is considered a strong merit. You are expected to have excellent communication skills in English, both written and spoken, and a clear motivation to pursue an academic career. The ability to work independently, take initiative, and collaborate effectively in an interdisciplinary and international research environment is essential. In the evaluation of candidates, particular emphasis will be placed on (1) scientific excellence in polymer and materials science, (2) experience or demonstrated potential in applying machine learning and data-driven approaches to materials or formulation design, and (3) the ability to contribute to and expand ongoing research activities within the group. About us The Department of Forest Bioeconomy and Technology at SLU brings together expertise in technology, natural and social sciences. The department provides world-class interdisciplinary environment for research and education in the circular bioeconomy, with activities at the campuses in Umeå and Uppsala, and nationally and internationally. Our work spans the entire value chain of the forest-based bioeconomy – from analysing how resources can be used and governed to developing technologies, materials, and industrial processes for sustainable bio-based products and systems. The Department is responsible for education at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels and collaborates closely with both industry and academia nationally and internationally. With us, you can help shape a more sustainable bio-based society. For more information about the department or division visit: https://www.slu.se/om-slu/organisation/institutioner/skoglig-bioekonomi-och-teknologi/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21086656031&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIwMj3yOmalQMVdluRBR3n7yxAEAAYASAAEgKD_fD_BwE Read more about our benefits and working at SLU by visiting: https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/ Location: Uppsala Form of employment: Temporary employment 24 months, with the possibility of extension. Scope: 100% Start date: The position may start as agreed between both parties but not later than January 1, 2027. Application: Please submit your application before deadline 16 August 2026. You can submit your application by clicking the button below. Union representatives: https://internt.slu.se/en/my-employment/employee-associations/kontaktpersoner-vid-rekrytering/

MSCA Postdoc at CoSAXS

LUNDS UNIVERSITET

Lund University was founded in 1666 and is repeatedly ranked among the world’s top universities. The University has around 46 000 students and 8 500 staff based in Lund, Helsingborg and Malmö. We are united in our efforts to understand, explain and improve our world and the human condition. High-throughput SAXS for Lipid Nanoparticle Structure and Function Are you interested in developing next-generation scattering methods for one of the most important challenges in modern therapeutics? We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join the CoSAXS beamline at MAX IV and the Edler Group, at Lund University to develop high-throughput SAXS/WAXS approaches for understanding the structure and function of solid lipid nanoparticles. This 36 month position offers the opportunity to work at one of the world’s most advanced synchrotron facilities, within an international and interdisciplinary research environment spanning soft matter physics, structural biology, nanomedicine, and advanced data analysis. The fellowship is funded through the prestigious AMBER Marie Skłodowska-Curie COFUND programme. The Research Environment The position is hosted jointly by the CoSAXS beamline and the Edler goup at Lund University. CoSAXS (https://www.maxiv.lu.se/beamlines-accelerators/beamlines/cosaxs/) is a state-of-the-art SAXS/WAXS beamline operating on the 3 GeV storage ring at MAX IV, one of the world’s leading fourth-generation synchrotron sources. The beamline supports research in soft matter, biological materials, and nanostructured systems through advanced instrumentation and flexible sample environments. The Edler Group ( https://www.cas.lu.se/research/materials-chemistry/edler-research-group) focuses on understanding how hierarchical functional materials form and how this understanding can be used to design new materials with tailored properties. Research in the group centres on self-assembly processes involving nanoparticles, surfactants, polymers, lipid systems, and other soft matter components, with particular emphasis on how nanoscale interactions govern structure and function across multiple length scales. The group combines advanced scattering and diffraction methods with a broad suite of complementary characterisation techniques such as TEM, SEM, AFM, NMR, light scattering, XRD, and neutron scattering approaches. The project also involves collaboration with researchers at ESS and ISIS Neutron and Muon Source as part of the ESS First Science initiative “The Lifecycle of a Lipid Nanoparticle.” The Project: High-throughput SAXS for Visualising Solid Lipid Nanoparticles Lipid nanoparticles are rapidly transforming the field of drug delivery, including RNA therapeutics and precision medicine. Despite their importance, many fundamental questions remain about how nanoparticle structure governs encapsulation, stability, transport, and biological performance. This project aims to establish direct links between nanoscale structure and function in lipid nanoparticles using advanced synchrotron SAXS/WAXS methods at MAX IV. The postdoctoral researcher will play a central role in developing new experimental and analytical capabilities for high-throughput lipid nanoparticle characterisation at CoSAXS. The work combines synchrotron experiments, advanced scattering analysis, and collaborative method development. The successful candidate will: design, plan, and perform SAXS/WAXS experiments on solid lipid nanoparticles and related soft matter systems develop high-throughput workflows for nanoparticle characterisation at CoSAXS investigate nanoparticle formation pathways, internal organisation, and structural evolution analyse scattering data using advanced computational approaches, including atomistic and coarse-grained modelling contribute to the development of data analysis tools for complex nanoparticle systems participate in neutron and synchrotron experiments at international large-scale facilities support relevant user experiments and contribute to the broader scientific activities of the beamline train and support users in scattering workflows and analysis methods contribute to supervision of student projects and collaborative research activities disseminate research through publications, conference presentations, workshops, and international collaborations The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute both to frontier research in nanostructured therapeutics and to the development of next-generation experimental methods for the wider scientific community. We are looking for an ambitious and collaborative researcher with strong experimental and analytical skills. Applicants should have: PhD in a relevant science area, biophysics, lipid/amphiphile based physical chemistry or equivalent Proven expertise in SAXS/WAXS and data interpretation Proven experience in the use of synchrotron SAXS/WAXS for lipid or surfactant self-assembled structure determination Documented expertise in data reduction and analysis using scripting (ideally python-based) Experience carrying out SAXS/WAXS experiments at large scale facilities, ideally from self-authored proposals Working experience with soft matter and/or protein systems including sample preparation for SAXS measurements Ability to work independently and take initiatives Strong social and communication skills Good command of written and spoken English Experience with lipid systems, surfactants, nanoparticle self-assembly, atomistic modelling, or beamline environments will be considered an advantage. For the full advert and application, go here: https://lu.varbi.com/what:job/jobID:939549/