PostDoc - Calculation of the Raman response of perfluorinated carbon chains (PFAS) in nanometer environments for the improvement of water pollution sensorics (Closed)

The aim of this postdoctoral position is to develop electromagnetic calculations as well as quantum chemistry calculations, as to obtain the Raman response of a set of molecules present in contaminated water: the per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of chemicals used to make fluoropolymer coatings and products that resist heat, oil, stains, grease, and water. The candidate should obtain the Raman signal for key PFAS often found in water for human consumption, and identify the vibrational fingerprints of this family of substances.

Furthermore, the possibilities for the Raman signal of these substances to be enhanced by electromagnetic means will be explored by obtaining the optical response of visible and infrared nanoantennas. This will be performed by solving Maxwell's equations in the combined system composed by the molecules and the nanoantennas.

Experience in electromagnetic calculations, infrared spectroscopy, and optical and Raman scattering is highly desired, as well as previous experience with the description of vibrational fingerprints of organic molecules.

• Contract duration: 1 year (possibility to extend up to 3 years)
• Estimated annual gross salary: Salary is commensurate with qualifications and consistent with our pay scales
• Target start date: 2023/07/10

We provide a highly stimulating research environment, and unique professional career development opportunities.

We offer and promote a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applicants regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity.

DIPC is a research center whose mission is to perform and catalyze cutting-edge research in physics and related disciplines, as well as to convey scientific culture to society. Located in Donostia / San Sebastian (Basque Country, Spain), DIPC was born from a strategic alliance of both public institutions and private companies. Since 2008 DIPC is a 'Basque Excellence Research Center' (BERC) recognized by the Basque Government's Department of Education. In 2019, DIPC was also recognized as a "Severo Ochoa" Excellence Center by the Spanish Research Agency.

Interested candidates should submit an updated CV and a brief statement of interest to the following application email below. 

Reference letters are welcome but not indispensable.

The reference of the specific opening to which the candidate is applying should be stated in the subject line, and the application must be received before the application deadline.

Although candidates are welcome to contact the project supervisors to know further details about the proposed research activity, please be aware that the application will be evaluated only if it is submitted directly to the email address listed below as application email.

• Reference: 2023/71
• Application deadline: 2023/06/26
• Application email: jobs.research@dipc.org

Applications received by the deadline will be evaluated by a Committee designed by the DIPC board on the basis of the following criteria:

• CV of the candidate (40%)
• Adequacy of the candidate’s scientific background to the project (40%)
• Reference letters (10%)
• Other: Diversity in gender, race, nationality, etc. (10%)

Evaluation results will be communicated to the candidates soon after. Positions will only be filled if qualified candidates are found.

The DIPC may revoke its decision if the candidate fails to join by the appointed time, in which case the position will be awarded to the candidate with the next highest score, provided it is above 50 (out of 100).

However, the selected candidate may keep the position if, in the opinion of the Selection Committee, the candidate duly justifies the reasons why he or she cannot join before the specified deadline, and as long as the project allows it.

 

This project has received funding from the Basque Government's grant program SPRI-ELKARTEK