PRR Project

Summary

Position: Assistant Researcher in Physical Inorganic Chemistry - Inorganic Metallic NanoChemistryJob Description:  The Chemistry Department at NOVA FCT is seeking a highly motivated, productive & skilled Inorganic and Nano Chemistry Researcher to join our dynamic team at NOVA FCT / LAQV-REQUIMTE Research Unit.The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting cutting-edge research in the areas of Inorganic & Nanomaterials Chemistry, with a specific focus on Anisotropic Metallic Nanomaterials for Optoelectronic, Catalysis & Microbiology applications.Key tasks include the development of an independent research line that focuses on synthesis and application and/or green methodology development aiming designing, synthesizing & fully characterizing novel metallic nanoparticles functionalized with biomolecules and biocompatible compounds, exploring optoelectronic, catalytic & biomedical applications in the framework of antibiotic resistance problem and cancer.The successful applicant will be part of the team that is responsible for the spectroscopy and nano synthesis facility and its 10 spectrometers and spectrofluorometers (nano, 96 well plates, and steady and excited state fluorescence) and will contribute to the management of the group facility. An important part of the tasks is to provide nano synthetic training for national and international (PhD)-students and postdocs. This includes advising on Sensing and green synthetic experiments to solve specific research problems related to the frame of the LAQV REQIMTE research lines. The successful applicant must be able to supervise Master´s and PhD students.Key task and Responsibilities:1. Design and execute experiments to synthesize inorganic compounds and nanoparticles with specific plasmonic properties, catalytic efficiencies & being highly biocompatible for microbiology and proteomics applications.2. Investigate catalytic mechanisms of Pt and PtAu Nanoparticles to optimize their use in water pollutant remediation.3. Investigate the use of the chalcogenide Selenium & Tellurium for Nanomaterials preparation.4. Conduct in-depth analysis of nanoparticles and isotropic nano structures using advanced characterization techniques such us transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and all optical spectroscopies such us Absorption UV-Vis-Nir and Fluorescence spectroscopies as well as deep knowledge in dynamic light scattering, DRX, XRD and other related techniques.5. User as technical expert a Transmission electron and scanning electron microscopies to cover all necessities in the research team.6. Collaborate with interdisciplinary national and international teams to integrate findings into broader research initiatives.7. Contribute to the publication of research findings in reputable scientific journals and patents.Scientific Profile: The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and attributes:1. Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry or a related field with a strong focus on Inorganic Nanomaterial Chemistry & Physical Characterizations.2. Proven expertise in designing & synthesizing Metallic & Metallic Shell core nanocomposites and nanoparticles, with a track record of successful projects.3. Extensive knowledge applications such as catalytic processes, focused on dye degradation and absorption of water contaminants.4. Strong publication record in reputable scientific journals, demonstrating the ability to contribute novel insights to the field, as well as in patents.5. Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in an international team environment.6. Demonstrated abilities to organize international congresses and international hands-on courses to disseminate knowledge in the field, advances, and results, and contribute to the development of the economical local fabric.7. Demonstrated user of high technology microscopies such as Transmission electron and scanning electron microscopies.Rationale: The recruitment for this position aligns with the strategic goals of NOVA FCT / LAQV-REQUIMTE R&D unit to advance research excellence in Physical Inorganic NanoChemistry. The intersection of nanostructure anisotropic materials and nanostructures, in catalysis and biochemistry, represents a burgeoning area of scientific exploration with promising applications in drug discovery, materials science, and electrooptical & sustainable clean technologies. The expertise of the successful candidate will significantly contribute to ongoing research projects & strengthen our institutional capabilities in these critical areas. Furthermore, the hire will enhance collaboration with external partners, foster academic-industry relationships, and contribute to the training of the next generation of researchers in Inorganic Nanomaterials Chemistry. This position reflects our commitment to innovation and scientific leadership at the forefront of advancements in Inorganic Materials Chemistry and related disciplines.