Research Support Technician - Magnetic Nanostructures Group

The mission of the Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2) is to achieve the highest level of scientific and technological excellence in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology. Its research lines focus on the newly-discovered physical and chemical properties that arise from the behavior of matter at the nanoscale. ICN2 has been awarded with the Severo Ochoa Center of Excellence distinction for two consecutive periods (2014-2018 and 2018-2022). ICN2 comprises 19 Research Groups, 7 Technical Development and Support Units and Facilities, and 2 Research Platforms, covering different areas of nanoscience and nanotechnology.

Job Title: Research Support Technician - Magnetic Nanostructures Group

Research area or group: Magnetic Nanostructures Group

Description of Group/Project:

The ICN2 Magnetic Nanostructures Group aims to understand and improve the functional properties of diverse types of magnetic and magnetophotonic nanostructures (nanoparticles and thin films). The group combines lithography and chemical synthesis with structural, morphological, optical, colloidal and magnetic characterisation to investigate diverse basic aspects of exchange-coupled magnetic and magnetophotonic nanostructures. The final goal is the application of these nanostructures for advanced and externally controlled nanotherapies, contrast agents, environmental remediation and sensors. The group also pushes at the limits of microscopy, synchrotron and neutron techniques to develop novel approaches to studying nanoscale objects.

This project aims to fabricate novel biodegradable multi-acting and detecting magnetic/optic nanocapsules. These novel nanostructures will integrate i) strong magnetic actuation, ii) drug delivery control through magnetic/optic stimuli and iii) enhanced dual magnetic/optical hyperthermia. This project will be developed in conjunction between Magnetic Nanostructures Group and the Nanostructured Functional Materials.

Main Tasks and responsibilities:

The researcher will be involved in all the stages of the project, from the preparation of the polymeric nanocapsules with the magnetic/optic functionality to the final evaluation of their properties. The functions of the job include:

1) Fabrication of biodegradable polymeric-based magneto/optic nanocapsules.

2) Structural characterization of the morphology of the nanocapsules.

3) Study of the magnetism of the polymeric-based magneto/optic nanocapsules.

4) Evaluation of the heating properties of the nanocapsules under NIR irradiation

Requirements:

• Education: BsC degree in Chemistry
• Skills: English level (Advanced)

We are looking for a highly motivated, enthusiastic and responsible person with team-work capacity

The candidate should have previous experience in the following topics:

- Preparation of biocompatible capsules for drug delivery.

- Synthesis of magnetic nanoparticles by thermal decomposition.

- Experience in polymer and surfactant science

- Experience with transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, diferential scanning calorimetry, magnetometry.

-Experience with NIR lasers

Summary of conditions:

• Full time work (37,5h/week)
• Contract Length: 2 months
• Location: Bellaterra (Barcelona)
• Salary will depend on qualifications and demonstrated experience.
• Support to the relocation issues.
• Life Insurance.

Estimated Incorporation date: November 1st 2021

How to apply:

All applications must be made via the ICN2 website and include the following:

Deadline for applications: October 30th 2021

Equal opportunities:

ICN2 is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion of people with disabilities.