Katalin Barta

The University of Graz is offering a postdoctoral position within the ADVANCE project, focusing on automated chemistry and machine learning concepts in catalysis. The project aims to address the urgent need for a sustainable chemical industry by developing new catalytic approaches for converting renewable resources and valorizing plastic waste streams. The complexity of these materials presents significant challenges for efficient depolymerization and conversion, which the project seeks to overcome using machine learning and AI-driven methods. The ADVANCE project integrates an automated high-throughput reactor system with advanced analytical technologies. Data generated from these systems will be processed using machine learning to construct robust structure-activity relationships and optimize selectivity and conversion for target compounds. The selected postdoctoral researcher will lead the development of automated chemical workflows and machine learning approaches to investigate sustainable catalytic systems, bridging digital chemistry and laboratory automation to accelerate the valorization of renewable feedstocks and waste streams. Key objectives include developing automated chemistry and machine learning approaches for biomass-related catalysis, optimizing catalytic processes using high-throughput experimentation and AI-driven models, and hands-on reaction automatization using robotic platforms such as ChemSpeed. The candidate will also be expected to prepare high-impact scientific publications and participate in the (co)-supervision of Bachelor, Master, and PhD students. Applicants must have a PhD in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering, with proven expertise in automated chemistry and AI-driven chemistry. Experience in high-throughput screening and catalyst development with AI, a solid background in homogeneous and/or heterogeneous catalysis, and expertise in Green Chemistry principles and metrics are required. Fluency in English (at least B2-level speaking and writing) is essential. The position is based at the Institute of Chemistry, University of Graz, Austria. The application deadline is 15 May 2026, and the position is expected to start on 1 June 2026. To apply, candidates should submit their CV, publication list, brief research statement, and the names of two references to [email protected]. The selection process involves document assessment and a video interview for shortlisted candidates. For further information about the institute, visit the Institute of Chemistry website .

The University of Graz is offering a postdoctoral position within the WOODVALUE project, focusing on sustainable routes to bioactive heterocycles from wood. The project aims to develop innovative catalytic strategies for the synthesis of pharmaceutically relevant molecules from lignin, a major component of biomass. While much progress has been made in converting biomass into platform chemicals, WOODVALUE seeks to move beyond low-value products and fuels by targeting high-value bioactive molecules, APIs, and natural products. Research in this project centers on achieving maximum synthetic efficiency and minimizing environmental impact by combining mild lignin depolymerization with atom-economic functionalization methods. The successful candidate will lead efforts in identifying and synthesizing bioactive heterocycles and pharmaceutical building blocks derived from lignin. Key objectives include designing and implementing novel catalytic strategies, identifying target structural motifs within lignin-derived chemicals, developing green chemical synthesis protocols, and comprehensively characterizing intermediates and final products. The project is supervised by Prof. Dr. Katalin Barta at the Institute of Chemistry, University of Graz. The research environment offers access to advanced analytical techniques (HPLC, GC-MS, NMR) and expertise in homogeneous catalysis and green chemistry. The position is full-time and temporary, starting June 1, 2026, with the application deadline set for May 15, 2026. Applicants must hold a PhD or equivalent in Chemistry, preferably Organic Chemistry, and demonstrate a strong background in natural product synthesis, retrosynthesis, and analytical methods. Fluency in English (minimum B2-level) is required. The selection process involves a two-step procedure: assessment of submitted documents followed by a video interview for shortlisted candidates. To apply, submit your CV, publication list, brief research statement, and the names of two references to [email protected]. For further information about the Institute of Chemistry, visit the academic page . The position is based in Graz, Austria, at Heinrichstraße 28. This opportunity is ideal for researchers interested in sustainable chemistry, catalysis, and the development of environmentally friendly synthetic routes for pharmaceutical applications. The WOODVALUE project offers a collaborative and innovative research environment at a leading European institution.