The Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)
is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Villa research
group. This position will be funded by ERC (PhotoSwim) ICIQ is one
of the world’s internationally recognized leading institutions in
the field of chemistry committed to solving major social and
economic challenges by conducting top quality research in three
main areas: Sustainable Catalysis , Renewable Energy and Health .
The institute also aims at training the future generation of
scientists by offering high-quality educational programs to master,
PhD students and postdoctoral researchers (full details on
http://www.iciq.org/ ). Description of the project : ICIQ is
looking for a postdoctoral researcher in the group of Prof.
Katherine Villa. The candidate will work on an ERC-funded project
focused on the development of light-responsive nanomotors with
enhanced charge transfer and energy storage capabilities. The
research aims to understand how interfacial coupling between
different materials, charge separation efficiency, and charge
carrier lifetimes govern energy storage, emission, and ultimately
nanomotor propulsion under dark and light irradiation cycles. By
combining materials synthesis with photophysical and mechanistic
studies, the project seeks to establish fundamental relationships
between charge dynamics, surface engineering, and motion of
photo-rechargeable nanomotors. Responsibilities Synthesis of
heterostructured materials, and persistent phosphors using wet
chemical methods and solid-state reactions. Engineering of surface
interfaces to assemble and integrate photoactive components through
physical and chemical interactions. Physicochemical and




photophysical characterization of nanomotors, with emphasis on
energy and charge transfer dynamics between components Analysis of
nanomotor motion performance using particle tracking, image
processing, and statistical methods. Write research reports and
scientific articles. Present research findings at internal meetings
and conferences. Provide guidance and support to students and team
members. Contribution to laboratory organization and safety
management. Requirements: The candidate must have a PhD in
Chemistry, Materials Science, or a closely related field by the
start date of the contract. Strong background in nanomaterials,
photocatalysis, photochemistry, or photoactive systems. In-depth
knowledge of the physics of semiconductor surfaces,
heterostructures, materials synthesis and surface
functionalization. Proven experience in photoluminescence,
transient absorption spectroscopy, lifetime measurements and
photoelectrochemical measurements. Familiarity with micromotor or
colloidal systems, particle tracking, or image analysis is a plus.
Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative
research team. Excellent communication and organizational skills
Strong written and oral communication skills in English. We offer:
A 3-year full-time contract. Remuneration according to individual’s




qualification/experience. Annual salary split in twelve monthly
payments Incorporation: March 2026 OTM-R principles in the
selection processes ICIQ follows the principles of Open,
Transparent and Merit-based Recruitment (OTM-R) and the Code of
Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers as established by the
European Commission. ICIQ follows in its selection process a gender
equality opportunity policy and a non-discrimination policy on the
basis of age, ethnic or social origin, religion or belief, sexual
orientation, language and disability. ICIQ is committed to
promoting a work-life balance for its employees and, as such,
offers versátil working hours. Selection Process ICIQ’s selection
process usually entails the following phases: Pre-selection: The
pre-selection process will be based on qualifications and expertise
as reflected on the candidates’ CVs. This phase is merit-based.
Interview: Preselected candidates will be interviewed by the Hiring
Manager of the position and the appointed Selection Committee.
Offer Letter: Once the successful candidate is selected, the People
Unit will extend a Job Offer, specifying the start day, salary and
overall job conditions. For further information, you can visit our
HR Excellence in Research page at: HR Excellence in Research (
iciq.org ) “Funded by the European Union (ERC, PhotoSwim,
101076680). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the
author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European
Union or the European Research Council. Neither the European Union
nor the granting authority can be held responsible for
them.”

📌 Postdoctoral Researcher (Ref: Postdoc 2026-02 KV) (Tarragona)
🏢 ICIQ
📍 Tarragona