Postdoctoral Researcher (NBS_Connect) Catalan Institute for Water Research in Spain

ICRA, the Catalan Institute for Water Research, is recruiting a Postdoctoral Researcher (NBS_Connect) in Girona, Spain, within its Research Support Services Unit. This is a full-time, temporary postdoctoral position starting in January 2027 for an initial period of 12 months, renewable. The gross annual salary package is listed as 29,000 € to 38,000 €.

The successful candidate will work on Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) applied to greywater and wastewater treatment and reuse. The role is centered on research, innovation, and knowledge transfer projects involving technologies such as green walls, constructed wetlands, hydroponic systems, and other NBS, including hybrid systems that integrate NBS with advanced water treatment technologies. The work also includes project coordination, technical leadership, experimental monitoring, data analysis, and preparation of technical reports and scientific publications.

The position is particularly relevant for researchers interested in the development, validation, demonstration, and upscaling of water treatment technologies aimed at improving environmental performance and increasing Technology Readiness Level (TRL). The post also involves communication, dissemination, training, co-creation, and stakeholder engagement with public administrations, companies, and water management entities, reflecting ICRA’s strong applied research and transfer mission.

Eligibility requirements are clearly defined. Candidates must hold a PhD in environmental sciences, water treatment technologies, biotechnology, or a related discipline. Required expertise includes knowledge of NBS and membrane technologies for water treatment and reuse, experimental design for greywater and wastewater systems, water quality analysis, emerging contaminants, and vegetation-based systems. The posting asks for at least 2 years of postdoctoral experience in NBS within Horizon projects or other international programmes, plus hands-on experience with green walls, hydroponic systems or similar approaches. Knowledge of plant physiology and plant health assessment is also required.

Language requirements include English, Catalan, and Spanish. The advert notes English as good and Catalan/Spanish as basic, indicating that the role is international but also integrated into a local Catalan/Spanish working environment. Desirable experience includes membrane technologies, integration of multiple treatment technologies, assessment of environmental/social/economic co-benefits, and outreach to both specialist and general audiences.

Applicants must submit a CV, motivation letter, DNI or NIE (or a statement committing to obtain work and residence permit in Spain if needed), and the PhD degree certificate. Applications are submitted via the ICRA offers webpage. The deadline is 6 November 2026 at 23:59 (Europe/Madrid). ICRA highlights benefits including Spanish social security coverage, an international research environment, and continuous training in a high-quality setting.