PhD in Polymer Mechanochemistry and Postdoc in Block Copolymer Self-Assembly and Soft Photonics Adolphe Merkle Institute, University of Fribourg in Switzerland

Adolphe Merkle Institute (AMI), a pole of the University of Fribourg in Switzerland, is advertising research openings in nanoscience and soft matter. The post includes one PhD position in Polymer Mechanochemistry and two postdoctoral positions in block copolymer self-assembly and soft photonics.

PhD project: Polymer Mechanochemistry
The AMI Polymer Chemistry and Materials Group (Prof. Christoph Weder and Dr. Linlin Deng) invites applications for a PhD project focused on the design and synthesis of supramolecular mechanophores, mechanoresponsive behavior in polymeric materials, and applications in biological environments for force mapping. The role is suited to candidates with a Master’s degree in Chemistry, Polymer, or Materials Science, plus experience in organic/polymer synthesis, strong communication skills, English proficiency, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team.

Postdoc project: Block Copolymer Self-Assembly and Soft Photonics
Two SNSF-funded postdoctoral positions are available in the Soft Matter Physics group at AMI, University of Fribourg, Switzerland, led by Dr. Andrea Dodero and hosted in the group of Prof. Ullrich Steiner. One position focuses on confined self-assembly, structural color, emulsification, microfluidics, electron microscopy, and X-ray scattering to understand and control photonic microparticles. The second focuses on optical enhancement of photonic pigments through polymer-nanoparticle composites, nanoparticle functionalization, emulsion processing, and optical spectroscopy. Applicants should have a PhD in materials science, polymer science, chemistry, physics, or a related field, with strong experimental experience and good English; modeling or photonic simulation experience is an advantage.

Funding and conditions
AMI highlights attractive employment conditions, a collaborative research environment, state-of-the-art facilities, and competitive salaries. The postdoctoral roles are initially for 1 year with possible extension. The PhD position is available immediately. The postdoctoral positions start in January 2027 or by agreement, no later than July 2027.

How to apply
PhD applicants should email a single PDF with CV, motivation letter, and contact details for at least two references to [email protected] with the subject line “PhD Position Polymer Mechanochemistry”. Postdoc applicants should email a CV with publication list, cover letter, and referee contacts to [email protected], and indicate preferred position and earliest possible starting date. Applications are reviewed as received and the positions remain open until filled.