Summary
The Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ) invites outstanding candidates to apply for a fully funded PhD position in the Villa Group. The PhD project, reference PhD 2026-22 KV, focuses on developing light‑driven oscillatory micromotor systems. This is a competitive call for one full‑time pre‑doctoral contract, linked to enrolment in the PhD programme at Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV).
Designation
Role: PhD Student
Reference: PhD 2026-22 KV
Supervisor: Prof. Katherine Villa
Research Group: Villa Group (ICIQ)
Number of positions: 1
Key details
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | ICIQ, Tarragona, Spain |
| Start of fellowship | 2027 |
| Employment type | Full‑time (pre‑doctoral contract under Spanish Law 14/2011) |
| Duration | Up to 4 years (annual renewal based on satisfactory progress) |
| Reference / Project title | PhD 2026-22 KV — Light‑Driven Oscillatory Micromotor Systems |
| Call opening | 5 October 2026 |
| Call deadline | 8 November 2026 |
Research Area
This PhD addresses interdisciplinary research at the interface of photocatalysis, materials chemistry and active matter. The goal is to design and study photoactive micro‑ and nanomotors that exhibit autonomous oscillatory dynamics and collective behaviour driven and controlled by light and chemical gradients.
Project objectives
- Develop photoactive micro/nanomotors with tailored composition, morphology and surface chemistry.
- Identify mechanisms that produce propulsion, oscillations and interparticle interactions.
- Control and tune dynamic behaviour using light (intensity, wavelength) and chemical stimuli.
- Characterize single‑particle and collective dynamics via optical microscopy and particle‑tracking analysis.
- Correlate material properties and photocatalytic reactivity with emergent dynamic behaviors and propose design principles for adaptive active systems.
Tasks and Responsibilities
- Design and synthesis of photoactive micro/nanomotors.
- Structural, optical and physicochemical characterization of materials.
- Experimental studies on how light and chemical conditions affect micromotor dynamics.
- Particle tracking, image analysis and quantitative study of collective phenomena.
- Data analysis, interpretation, publication of results and presentation at international conferences.
Preferred Skills / Background
- Degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Nanotechnology, Chemical Engineering, Physics or related fields.
- Experience in photocatalysis, semiconductor materials, nanomaterial synthesis, colloidal systems or micro/nanomotors is an advantage.
- Familiarity with optical microscopy, particle tracking, image analysis, spectroscopy or electrochemistry is desirable.
- Strong experimental aptitude, interdisciplinary interest and good programming or data‑analysis skills (e.g. Python, MATLAB).
- Excellent organisational, written and spoken English communication skills.
Eligibility / Qualification
- Applicants must hold (or have completed by enrolment) a Master’s degree or equivalent in Chemistry, Pharmacy, Physics, Chemical Engineering or related disciplines.
- Candidates of any nationality are eligible.
- Evidence of English proficiency is desirable (B2, First Certificate, IELTS 6 or equivalent). Applicants from native English speaking countries (UK, Ireland, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand) are exempt.
- All admissions will be verified and evaluated; incomplete applications will not be considered.
Scholarship Description & Grant Conditions
The selected candidate will receive a fully funded pre‑doctoral contract regulated by Spanish law, with social security coverage and enrolment costs covered (to be paid to the university and reimbursed by ICIQ). The contract is full‑time and incompatible with other regular fellowships or income. Interruptions are permitted for legally recognised reasons (e.g. maternity/paternity, temporary disability) and do not count against the total contract time.
| Condition | Details |
|---|---|
| Employment contract | Pre‑doctoral research personnel in training (Spanish Law 14/2011) |
| Duration | Up to 4 years, renewed annually subject to progress |
| Gross annual salary (years 1–2) | €19,007.22 per year (12 monthly payments) |
| Gross annual salary (year 3) | €20,364.88 per year |
| Gross annual salary (year 4) | €25,456.10 per year |
| Social security | Full coverage under the Spanish Social Security system (healthcare, pension, unemployment benefits) |
| Fees | University enrolment costs paid by the student and later refunded by ICIQ |
| Work arrangement | Full‑time at ICIQ, must not receive another regular fellowship with same purpose |
Evaluation & Selection Process
Applications will be checked for eligibility. Eligible candidates are evaluated on CV, personal statement, academic records and English level. Short‑listed applicants will be interviewed. Final decisions will be communicated by mid‑November 2026; successful candidates must accept or decline the offer within five business days.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the ICIQ Careers portal. Applications sent by email or other channels will not be accepted.
Required documents (PDF)
- Full Curriculum Vitae including academic background, research experience, publications and references.
- Personal statement (max. two A4 pages) explaining background, research interests, career goals and preferred ICIQ research group and supervisor.
- Official transcripts for BSc and MSc studies (if MSc in progress, include current enrolment details).
- Contact details for two referees (ICIQ will contact referees only if the candidate is shortlisted).
- Evidence of English proficiency (desirable): B2 certificate, First Certificate, IELTS 6 or equivalent. Interviews may be used to assess English if certificate not provided.
For queries about eligibility prior to applying, contact ICIQ Human Resources: positions@iciq.es.
Application Deadline
Last date to apply: 8 November 2026
Apply Link
Submit your application and find full call details here: ICIQ Careers — PhD 2026-22 KV (Fully‑Funded PhD Programme 2026, Third Call)
Additional information
ICIQ is committed to equal opportunities and non‑discrimination. The institute promotes work‑life balance and offers flexible working arrangements. Further information about ICIQ, its research environment and training opportunities (including the SHARP yearly training programme) is available at the institute website: www.iciq.cat.
