Research Associate for the Project “VALPROTOX” Protein-based functional materials

Descrizione

Testo originale dell'annuncio (in inglese)

We are looking for a highly motivated and talented postdoctoral researcher to join our interdisciplinary research team at the Institute of Physical Chemistry. This position offers the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research in the field of biohybrid materials. Our research focuses on the development of functional protein-based materials and the investigation of their synthesis, processing, and performance, for example, for advanced biomedical and biotechnological applications. In this position, you will be responsible for the structural characterization of protein-based adsorber materials, combining electron microscopy, X-ray scattering, and porosity analysis to link material architecture to adsorption performance. Within our research group the successful candidate will be responsible for: Experimental Research perform comprehensive structural characterization of protein-based adsorber materials using electron microscopy (TEM, SEM, cryo-EM), X-ray scattering (SAXS), and adsorption-based surface area and pore analysis investigate the internal and external morphology, hierarchical organization, and pore architecture of engineered protein-based materials support the optimization and validation of material synthesis by providing structural feedback on the influence of preparation parameters Data Analysis and Structural Interpretation analyze and interpret data from complementary characterization techniques using appropriate methods and software establish relationships between synthesis conditions, structural features, and functional performance by integrating structural data with results from functional assays maintain accurate and detailed records of experimental procedures, measurement conditions, and research findings Method Development develop and optimize workflows for the structural characterization of complex protein-based materials improve and standardize characterization protocols to enhance reproducibility, data quality, and comparability between different material variants Collaboration and Communication work collaboratively with researchers within the group and with interdisciplinary project partners provide structural insights to colleagues responsible for material synthesis and functional evaluation and support the integration of results across project work packages present research findings in group meetings, departmental seminars, and international conferences prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals and contribute to project reporting, intellectual property (IP) protection, and research data management Mentoring mentor bachelor's, master's, and PhD students and support junior researchers in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific interpretation Compliance and Safety ensure compliance with safety regulations and ethical standards and actively participate in laboratory safety training Your profile A university degree in a relevant field, plus doctorate. Candidates are required to have: PhD degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Materials Science, Biotechnology, Nanoscience, or a closely related field proven extensive research experience in nanomaterials, biomolecular materials, protein chemistry, or related areas strong expertise in the structural characterization of advanced materials using electron microscopy and/or scattering techniques practical experience with electron microscopy methods, such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and/or scanning electron microscopy (SEM), is highly desirable experience with complementary characterization methods for materials analysis (e.g., X-ray-based methods, surface or porosity analysis) is advantageous ability to independently design, perform, and interpret complex characterization experiments strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to establish structure-property relationships from multidisciplinary datasets experience in developing and optimizing experimental workflows and characterizat