POSTDOC FOR DESIGNING VITRIMERS FOR SPACE APPLICATIONS (m/f)

Are you passionate about research? So are we! Come and join us

The Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) is a Research and Technology Organization (RTO) active in the fields of materials, environment and IT. By transforming scientific knowledge into technologies, smart data and tools, LIST empowers citizens in their choices, public authorities in their decisions and businesses in their strategies.

Do you want to know more about LIST? Check our website: https://www.list.lu/

Discover our Materials department: https://www.list.lu/en/materials/

You'd like to contribute as a researcher? Join our Materials Research and Technology department

Through its research into advanced materials and processes, the “Materials Research and Technology” (MRT) department, with its 200 researchers and engineers, contributes to the emergence of enabling technologies that underpin the innovation processes of local and international industry. MRT's activities hinge on four thematic pillars: nanomaterials and nanotechnology, scientific instrumentation and process technology, structural composites, and functional polymers.

The department also includes four high-tech platforms, focusing on composites, prototyping, characterization and testing. These platforms serve both LIST research staff, and other stakeholders in Luxembourg.

This job position is linked to the Sustainable Composite Materials & Manufacturing (SCMM) Innovation Centre, which is an initiative aiming at turning materials innovations into demonstrators addressing challenges in transport sectors towards zero‐emission mobility solutions. The program is endorsed by leading companies in the automotive, rail, aeronautics, and space sectors.

How will you contribute?

The postdoc will undertake the synthesis and crosslinking of precursors for vitrimers, taking advantage of transesterification dynamic chemistries, and will additionally carry out molecular, thermal/mechanical and (critically) rheological characterization of the precursors and resultant materials.

The ultimate goal of the postdoc's efforts will be the formulation / adaptation of these precursors for compatibility with manufacturing process such as honeycomb impregnation and prepregs preparation, and the realization of materials performance appropriate for f composite sandwich panels intended for aeronautical applications.

In this context, the postdoc will be responsible for developing suitable vitrimer resins and producing sufficient material (kg scale) to develop demonstrators at a technology readiness level (TRL) up to 6.

Finally, the postdoc will participate in regular meetings, effectively communicate findings in a professional manner in both oral and written form and take a leading role in the protection / dissemination of the work, while interacting constructively and in a positive with a diverse group of colleagues and contributing to the success of the group, unit and institution. The PostDoc position is part of an industrial partnership with the Luxembourg-based company Euro-Composites.

Is your profile described below? Are you our future colleague? Apply now!

You hold a PhD degree in Chemistry / Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science or a related field.

You are motivated to carry out impactful, high quality experimental research in collaboration with a diverse group of colleagues. You enjoy learning new things, using your creativity to solve problems, and taking advantage of opportunities to build your skills.

You're used to communicating effectively in English, both in writing and orally, and documenting your work (minimum certified B2 level).

You are careful, conscientious, and well organized in the lab, able to work with others.

Your LIST benefits

• An organization with a passion for impact and strong RDI partnerships in Luxembourg and Europe that works on responsible and independent research projects

• Sustainable by design, empowering our belief that we play an essential role in paving the way to a green society

• Innovative infrastructures and exceptional labs occupying more than 5,000 square metres, including innovations in all that we do

• An environment encouraging curiosity, innovation and entrepreneurship in all areas

• Personalized learning programme to foster our staff's soft and technical skills

• Multicultural and international work environment with more than 50 nationalities represented in our workforce

• Diverse and inclusive work environment empowering our people to fulfil their personal and professional ambitions

• Gender-friendly environment with multiple actions to attract, develop and retain women in science

• 32 days' paid annual leave, 11 public holidays, 13-month salary, statutory health insurance

• Flexible working hours, home working policy and access to lunch vouchers

Apply online

Your application must include:

• A motivation letter oriented towards the position and detailing your experience;

• A scientific CV with contact details;

• List of publications and / or patents (if applicable);

• Contact details of 2 references.

Application procedure and conditions:

• We kindly request applicants to provide their nationality for statistical purposes only, as part of our commitment to promoting diversity and ensuring equal opportunities in our workforce. This information will be kept confidential and will not be used for any discriminatory purposes.

• LIST is dedicated to maintaining an inclusive work environment and is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to attracting, hiring, and retaining a diverse workforce. All applicants will be considered for employment without discrimination based on national origin, race, colour, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, religion, age, or disability.

• Applications will be continuously reviewed until the position is filled. An assessment committee will thoroughly evaluate applications, adhering to guidelines designed to ensure equal opportunities. The primary criteria for selection will be the alignment of the applicant's existing skills and expertise with the requirements mentioned above.