Position description
The successful candidate will be responsible for developing an optimal strategy for surface bio-functionalization, including selecting stable and robust biomolecules and determining the best approach for immobilizing them on the chip. Additionally, they will explore methods for creating micropatterns with multiple functionalities on a single chip, utilizing techniques such as Click-Chemistry and Atomic Force Microscopy-based nanolithogaphy.
The candidate will also investigate the specificity and stability of the bio-functionalized surfaces using surface affinity methods. As part of the project, the candidate will contribute to the development of the virus detection process, which includes designing protocols for air sampling and AI-assisted optical detection. This will involve optimizing the optical detection setup to ensure accurate and reliable results.
The research will be conducted primarily at the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre in Ispra, Italy, within the Nanobiotechnology Laboratory facilities. A smaller portion of the work will be carried out at Elettra Sincrotrone Trieste.
Qualifications and other requirements
We require a PhD in physics, chemistry, optical engineering, or a related field. Specifically, the ideal candidate should have:
– Strong experience with Atomic Force Microscopy (essential);
– Experience with surface bio-functionalization techniques;
– Knowledge and experience with Hyperspectral microscopy or other light scattering techniques (advantageous);
– A solid record of research activities relevant to the position, including publications in international peer-reviewed journals, is also desirable;
– Fluent English, both written and spoken, is essential (minimum B2 level), and knowledge of additional languages is an advantage.
The following competencies are considered a plus:
– Ability to work collaboratively in a team and thrive in a multi-cultural environment;
– Creativity and independence in work, with the ability to take initiative and work autonomously.
Conditions
The duration of the contract will be 24 months.
How to apply
The applicant must send a CV in the European Format and should complement the application with a recommendation letter. The applications should be sent to the following email address: hr@ceric-eric.eu, with the following subject of the mail: PathCHIP.
1. Deadline for application: 28th of August 2025
For further information, please contact: andrea.valsesia@ec.europa.eu and loredana.casalis@elettra.eu
About CERIC
The Consortium was set up with the European Commission’s decision on June 2014, (214/392/EU) and its Statute was published in 26/6/2014 in the EU official Gazette. CERIC provides open access to some of the most advanced analytical facilities in Europe to help science and industry advance in all fields of materials, biomaterials and nanotechnology.