Postdoc in the area of Material Science and Polymer Chemistry

Empa is the research institute for materials science and technology of the ETH Domain and conducts cutting-edge research for the benefit of industry and the well-being of society.

The Laboratory for Biomimetic Membranes and Textiles at Empa in St. Gallen is seeking a full-time

Postdoc in the area of Material Science and Polymer Chemistry

The activities of the Postdoc position are focused on applied research within two different industrial projects. The first project is related to the development of textile-based colorimetric sensors for the detection of bacteria and the second on the development of hydrogel/textile-based skin models for the investigation of skin-material interactions.The successful candidate will be responsible for designing, executing and analyzing scientific experiments, thereby applying and investigating biopolymer/hydrogel cross-linking and modification strategies with their respective analysis, molecule encapsulation for sensor development, and preparations of prototype devices for further testing, partly in close collaboration with the companies. In addition, the candidate will be involved in writing scientific publications, presenting results at national and international scientific meetings.

We are looking for a highly motivated team-player capable of independent, efficient handling of scientific questions in an interdisciplinary environment.The candidate holds a PhD degree in Material Science, Polymer Chemistry or related disciplines.The candidate is expected to actively bring in his/her scientific expertise and competence including good communication skills. Previous experience in one or more of the following fields such as polymer processing, coating applications, polymer spinning, encapsulation strategies and respective analyticsis required. Fluency in English is required; German is considered a plus. The position (100%) will be initially limited to two years and is located at Empa St.Gallen.