Postdoctoral Researcher in Electrocatalysis and Composite Materials (Department of Magnetic Materials and Nanostructures, IFJ PAN) Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences in Poland

The Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences (IFJ PAN) in Krakow, Poland, invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher (Adjunct) position in the Department of Magnetic Materials and Nanostructures (NZ34), Division of Condensed Matter Physics. This full-time, fixed-term position (up to 33 months) focuses on advanced research in the design, synthesis, laser-assisted modification, and comprehensive characterization of functional composite materials for catalytic applications, with a primary emphasis on electrocatalysis, particularly hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR).

The successful candidate will join a dynamic research group working on 2D/3D materials, porous electrode architectures, and laser-based methods to tailor catalyst structure and surface chemistry. Key responsibilities include designing and synthesizing advanced composite electrocatalysts (metal/metal-oxide and metal–carbon hybrids, heterostructures, porous composites), preparing and processing 2D/3D materials (such as porous 3D carbon architectures and graphene/CNT-based systems), developing laser-assisted synthesis and modification protocols, preparing electrode architectures and catalyst layers, and conducting advanced structural and physicochemical characterization (SEM/TEM, XRD, Raman/FTIR, UV–Vis, BET, DLS/zeta). The role also involves performing and analyzing electrochemical testing (CV/LSV, Tafel analysis, EIS, durability tests), investigating degradation mechanisms, and disseminating research results through publications and presentations at seminars and conferences.

Applicants must hold a PhD in physical sciences or related fields (chemistry, physical chemistry, material science), with a strong publication record in international journals and hands-on experience in synthesis/processing of functional composites for electrochemical applications. Experience in electrochemical testing, materials characterization, and data analysis is essential, as is proficiency in English and teamwork. Additional assets include expertise in HER/OER/ORR-oriented electrocatalysis, polymer composites, functional coatings, proposal writing, and international collaboration.

The position offers a competitive monthly gross salary (PLN 7,250 for PhD, PLN 8,050 for habilitation), with possible additional benefits such as long-service awards, annual bonuses, and social benefits. The role is research-focused with no teaching obligations, and provides access to state-of-the-art facilities, computing infrastructure, and opportunities for collaboration with leading experts and institutes.

To apply, candidates must contact Prof. Michal Krupiński (head of NZ34) early in the process and may be asked to deliver a seminar. Applications (preferably as a single PDF, .zip, or .rar file) should be sent by email to [email protected] by May 4th, 2026, with the subject 'Adiunkt/post-doc/AP-I-NZ34-1/26'. Referees must send recommendations directly to the same address by the deadline. Detailed application requirements and process are outlined in the official Terms and Conditions of Recruitment document. Interviews will be held June 9–11, 2026, and the competition will conclude by June 22, 2026.

For more information, visit the IFJ PAN website or the position announcement.