Reference Number: ESD-81647
Organization: European Spallation Source (ESS)
Position Type: Postdoctoral Researcher
Duration: 3 years, full-time
Application Deadline: October 7, 2026
Summary
The European Spallation Source (ESS) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher position focused on the small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) of biocompatible thermoresponsive microgels. The project aims to understand the structure, mechanics, and flow behaviour of poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) (PVCL) microgels using neutron and X-ray scattering, rheology, advanced sample environments, and molecular simulations.
The researcher will work with the ESS LOKI team and collaborate with research groups at the University of Florence and Sapienza University of Rome. The first year will be based in Florence, Italy, followed by two years in Lund, Sweden.
Postdoctoral Researcher in Small-Angle Neutron Scattering of Biocompatible Microgels
Summary Table
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Postdoctoral Researcher |
| Reference Number | ESD-81647 |
| Organization | European Spallation Source (ESS) |
| Research Focus | SANS, SAXS, PVCL microgels, soft colloids, rheology |
| Research Area | Soft Matter, Materials Science, Neutron/X-ray Scattering |
| Duration | 3 years, full-time |
| Year 1 Location | Florence, Italy |
| Years 2–3 Location | Lund, Sweden |
| Application Deadline | October 7, 2026 |
| Required Degree | Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or related field |
Designation
Postdoctoral Researcher in Small-Angle Neutron Scattering of Biocompatible Microgels
Research Area
- Small-Angle Neutron Scattering (SANS)
- Small-Angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS)
- Soft Colloids and Microgels
- Biocompatible Materials
- Rheology and Flow Behaviour
- Molecular Dynamics Simulations
- Thermoresponsive Materials
- Soft Matter and Materials Science
- Biomedical Materials
- Advanced Neutron and X-ray Instrumentation
Location
Florence, Italy — First Year
Lund, Sweden — Remaining Two Years
The researcher will work with ESS, the University of Florence, and Sapienza University of Rome. The position also involves international travel to neutron and X-ray large-scale facilities for collaborative research and beamtime.
Eligibility/Qualification
Required Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field.
- Strong experience in the characterisation of soft colloids.
- Experience using large-scale X-ray and/or neutron facilities, including data analysis.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in interdisciplinary research teams.
- Strong scientific writing and presentation skills in English, demonstrated through a strong publication record.
- Willingness and ability to travel internationally for collaborative research and beamtime.
Desirable Qualifications
- Strong research experience in small-angle X-ray and/or neutron scattering of soft colloids.
- Programming experience in Python, MATLAB, or similar tools for data analysis.
- Experience with molecular dynamics and coarse-grained simulations.
- Experience in synthesis, characterisation, and rheological measurements of soft colloidal systems.
Job Description
The successful candidate will investigate the structure, mechanics, and flow behaviour of PVCL microgels, with particular emphasis on their behaviour in concentrated suspensions and under shear.
Key responsibilities include:
- Synthesising and characterising PVCL microgels with different crosslinking conditions and architectures.
- Using SAXS and SANS, including contrast variation techniques, to study particle structure, deformation, and compressibility.
- Developing and commissioning a custom 1,2-shear cell for rheo-SANS and rheo-SAXS experiments.
- Investigating concentrated microgel suspensions under shear, including shear-induced structural transitions and anisotropy.
- Performing neutron and X-ray scattering experiments at ESS, MAX IV, and other international large-scale facilities.
- Performing molecular dynamics and coarse-grained simulations of microgels and dense suspensions.
- Developing quantitative models linking microgel architecture, collective behaviour, scattering response, and macroscopic rheology.
- Conducting independent research aligned with the LOKI scientific programme.
- Contributing to the commissioning and scientific development of ESS instrumentation.
- Publishing research findings in scientific and technical journals.
- Presenting research at conferences and workshops.
- Collaborating with research groups at ESS, the University of Florence, and Sapienza University of Rome.
The research has potential applications in areas such as 3D-printable biomaterials and responsive nanocarriers.
How to Apply
Applicants should submit the following documents in English:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation Letter
Applications must be submitted directly through the European Spallation Source (ESS) website by clicking the official “Apply” option and following the application instructions.
For further information, applicants may contact:
Talent Acquisition Specialist: Louise Jönegård
Hiring Manager: Andrew Jackson
The recruitment process is expected to include an initial Zoom interview in mid-October, followed by onsite interviews at ESS during the first weeks of November. The onsite interview will include a scientific seminar open to ESS employees.
Last Date for Apply
October 7, 2026
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible.
