Research Collaborator - Kinetics of non-equilibrium glassy polymers and small molecules by calorimetric techniques (Open)

The thermodynamic state of amorphous polymers and other materials may profoundly affect their performance in a wide variety of applications, ranging from the most traditional ones to those of recent technological relevance, such as electron transport properties in materials employed for solar cells and drug release from glassy polymeric carriers. If a system of this kind is brought to non-equilibrium conditions, its thermodynamic state may vary tremendously depending on the thermal history. This is the case of amorphous melts vitrified to their glassy state. This project aims to unveil the mechanisms behind the kinetics of evolution toward the most easily accessible stable thermodynamic state of a non-equilibrium system made of both glasses of different nature. For this purpose, calorimetric techniques, including new generation fast scanning calorimetry, will be the main methods to characterize the thermodynamic state of amorphous polymers and other materials in a wide range of conditions.

Highly motivated candidates with a PhD in material science and strong background in the glass dynamics are sought.

• Estimated annual gross salary: Salary is commensurate with qualifications and consistent with our pay scales
• Target start date: 2026/01/01

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.

The team is made by the joint collaboration between Fabienne Barroso-Bujans of DIPC and Daniele Cangialosi of Centro de Fisica de Materiales also associated to DIPC.

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: 2025/69
• Application deadline: 2025/10/30
• 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.

The contract is part of the CEX2024-001491-S grant, funded by MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033