Summary
The Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ), Spain invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in the Dr. Carla Casadevall Research Group. The selected candidate will work on an interdisciplinary research project titled “Machine Learning and High-Throughput Screening-Accelerated Discovery of Photocatalytic Polymeric Vesicles for Artificial Photosynthesis.”
The project combines molecular catalysis, polymer chemistry, nanoscience, photochemistry, artificial photosynthesis, machine learning, and AI-guided optimization to develop sustainable solutions for solar fuel production and CO₂ conversion. The position offers an excellent research environment with international collaborations, advanced scientific training, and career development opportunities.
Fully Funded PhD Scholarship 2026 at Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ), Spain
Scholarship Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Title | Fully Funded PhD Scholarship at ICIQ, Spain |
| Institute | Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ) |
| Research Group | Dr. Carla Casadevall Research Group |
| Position | PhD Student / Doctoral Researcher |
| Project Title | Machine Learning and High-Throughput Screening-Accelerated Discovery of Photocatalytic Polymeric Vesicles for Artificial Photosynthesis |
| Funding Project | AIA2025-163492-C54 funded by MCIU/AEI |
| Employment Type | Full-time, Pre-doctoral Research Contract |
| Duration | Up to 4 years (annual renewal based on performance) |
| Location | Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain |
| Monthly Salary | Paid through annual salary structure |
| Application Deadline | July 24, 2026 |
Research Area
- Molecular Catalysis
- Polymer Chemistry
- Nanoscience
- Photochemistry
- Artificial Photosynthesis
- Sustainable Energy Conversion
- Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) Reduction
- Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
- High-Throughput Screening
- Computational Modelling
- Photocatalytic Materials Design
Location
Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)
Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain
ICIQ is an internationally recognized research centre focused on sustainable catalysis, renewable energy, and health-related chemistry. The institute hosts more than 300 professionals working across multiple research groups and provides a highly collaborative environment for doctoral training.
Eligibility / Qualification
Academic Background: Must hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or related disciplines by the time of enrolment.
Candidates must fulfil the following requirements:
- Master’s degree or equivalent qualification in:
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Chemical Engineering
- Related scientific disciplines
- The Master’s degree must be completed before enrolment into the PhD programme.
Additional Requirements
- Strong academic background and interest in interdisciplinary research.
- Ability to work in molecular design, materials synthesis, spectroscopy, and photocatalysis.
- Good written and oral communication skills in English.
English Language Requirement
Applicants should preferably provide proof of English proficiency through:
- B2 certificate
- First Certificate
- IELTS score of 6 or equivalent
Candidates from the UK, Ireland, USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand are exempt.
Job Description / Research Responsibilities
The selected PhD researcher will:
- Conduct research on photocatalytic polymeric vesicles for artificial photosynthesis.
- Develop and optimize bioinspired catalytic systems for solar fuel production.
- Investigate light-driven CO₂ conversion technologies.
- Apply machine learning and high-throughput screening approaches for catalyst discovery.
- Perform molecular design, synthesis, characterization, and photocatalytic evaluation.
- Work within a multidisciplinary consortium involving catalysis, AI, computational modelling, and automation.
- Participate in scientific seminars, technical training, and professional development activities.
- Prepare research publications and contribute to the PhD thesis.
Scholarship Benefits / Salary
The selected candidate will receive a fully funded PhD contract with:
- Research employment contract under Spanish Law 14/2011
- Annual salary:
| PhD Year | Gross Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| First & Second Year | €19,007.22/year |
| Third Year | €20,364.88/year |
| Fourth Year | €25,456.10/year |
Additional Benefits:
- Full social security coverage.
- Access to Spanish public healthcare system.
- Pension and unemployment benefits.
- PhD programme enrolment fees covered.
- Opportunities for international research stays.
- Professional training in scientific and transferable skills.
- Flexible working arrangements and equal opportunity policies.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Curriculum Vitae (PDF)
- Academic background
- Research experience
- Publications
- Conferences
- Awards and achievements
- References
- Personal Statement (PDF, maximum 2 pages)
- Academic background
- Research interests
- Career goals
- Motivation for joining ICIQ
- Reasons for choosing the research group/project
- Academic Transcripts
- Bachelor’s and Master’s degree records
- Certified English translations (if required)
- Two Recommendation Contacts
- University professors or relevant researchers who can evaluate research potential
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application through the official ICIQ recruitment portal by providing:
- Updated CV
- Personal statement
- Academic transcripts
- Recommendation contacts
- English proficiency proof (if available)
Selection will involve:
- Pre-selection: Evaluation of academic qualifications and research experience.
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed by the hiring manager and selection committee.
- Final Offer: Selected candidate will receive an official PhD offer letter with joining date and contract details.
Last Date to Apply
📅 Application Deadline: July 24, 2026
Candidates are encouraged to apply before the deadline to be considered for this fully funded PhD opportunity at ICIQ, Spain.
