Aalto University is where science and art meet technology and business. We shape a sustainable future by making research breakthroughs in and across our disciplines, sparking the game changers of tomorrow and creating novel solutions to major global challenges. Our community is made up of 13 000 students, 400 professors and close to 4 500 other faculty and staff working on our dynamic campus in Espoo, Greater Helsinki, Finland. Diversity is part of who we are, and we actively work to ensure our community’s diversity and inclusiveness. This is why we warmly encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to join our community.
 
At the Department of Applied Physics, our pioneering research in physical sciences creates important industrial applications that hold great technological potential. Our research focuses on Materials physics, Quantum technology, Soft & living matter, and Advanced energy solutions. Topics extend from fundamental research to important applications. We educate future generations of research and development professionals, data specialists, technology experts, inventors, and scientists for industry and society.

As a part of our Academy of Finland project, the group of Molecular Materials led by Distinguished Prof. Olli Ikkala invites applications for

Postdoctoral researcher on design and characterization of bio-inspired hydrogels

A postdoctoral position is available at the group of Molecular Materials, Department of Applied Physics (School of Science) at Aalto University.

Our research focuses on developing materials with novel functionalities, designed from the molecular level. Our highly interdisciplinary team provides an inspiring environment for international researchers from different fields to broaden their perspective and to get involved in intriguing cutting-edge research.

Your role and goals

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher to work with us on the design and characterization of bio-inspired hydrogels, involving designing polymer networks, synthesis of hydrogels, and characterization of mechanical and optical properties of them. The goal is to develop hydrogels with properties mimicking natural systems.

Your experience and background

We offer a highly interdisciplinary working environment, with challenging and interesting topics related to self-assembly of responsive nanoparticles, intelligent hydrogels, biomimetic materials, etc. In return, we would like the candidate to have:

• A doctoral degree in related fields, such as chemistry, material science, polymer science, and preferably with previous experience on hydrogels.
• Experience with e.g. chemical synthesis of polymers, and material characterization techniques.
• Excellent track record of study
• Good English & team working skills. Finnish language is not required.

Your network and team

The researcher will be based in the group of Molecular Materials, led by Aalto Distinguished Professor Olli Ikkala, at the Department of Applied Physics. More information about our group can be found in: Molecular Materials (Molmat) | Aalto University

What we offer

The fixed term contract is initially for 2 years and the annual workload of research and teaching staff at Aalto University is 1612 hours. Aalto University follows the salary system of Finnish universities. The starting salary for a postdoc ranges from 4020 € to 4420 € per month (gross), depending on previous experience. The contract includes Aalto University occupational healthcare.

Our vast array of professional development opportunities means you will grow and learn, having the chance to participate actively in staff trainings and development projects based on your interests and needs. There is great freedom in your role, and we have a flexible modern working culture. We work in a hybrid way, and the primary workplace is Otaniemi, Espoo. The Otaniemi campus is a thriving and connected community of 100 nationalities, 13,000 students and 4,500 employees. Life at the campus is vibrant and filled with amazing architecture, calming nature, and a variety of cafes, restaurants, services and good connections along the recently opened metro line.

Ready to apply?

If you are interested to learn more about our group and would like to be considered for the position, please submit your application through our recruitment system by using the “Apply now!” link on our recruitment site.

To apply, please share the following application materials in English and in pdf-format with us:

• Your CV, including your GPA and a list of publications.
• Your transcripts and Ph.D. degree certificate (if available)
• Motivation letter (< 1 page)
• Other supporting material (e.g. Reference letters or names of referees)

The deadline for applications is the 31st of August 2024. We aim to fill this position as soon as possible (e.g., starting in September or October 2024) and will start evaluating the applications upon arrival. The position will be filled once a suitable applicant appears. Aalto University reserves the right for justified reasons to leave the position open, to extend the application period and to consider candidates who have not submitted applications during the application period.

Please note: Aalto University’s employees should apply for the position via our internal HR system Workday (Internal Jobs) by using their existing Workday user account (not via the external webpage for open positions). Aalto University’s students and visitors should apply as external candidates with personal (not aalto) email.

More information

If you wish to learn more about the position, you can reach out to Dr. Hang Zhang (firstname.lastname(at)aalto.fi) or HR Advisor Hanna Multisilta (firstname.lastname(at)aalto.fi) in application process related questions.

Want to know more about us and your future colleagues? You can watch these videos: Aalto University - Towards a better world, Aalto People , and Shaping a Sustainable Future. Read more about working at Aalto: https://www.aalto.fi/en/careers-at-aalto

Check out our new virtual campus experience: https://virtualtour.aalto.fi/

About Finland
Finland is a great place for living with or without family - it is a safe, politically stable and well-organized Nordic society. Finland is consistently ranked high in quality of life and was just listed again as the happiest country in the world: https://worldhappiness.report/news/its-a-three-peat-finland-keeps-top-spot-as-happiest-country-in-world/. For more information about living in Finland: https://www.aalto.fi/en/careers-at-aalto/living-in-finland.

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