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The main goal of the OPUS 17 project is to create a fundamental basis for the synthesis of novel and economical nano-catalysts for the production of high-value chemicals such as vitamin and drug precursors. The research strategy focuses on developing readily available 3d transition metals (Co, Cu, Fe) supported on active carbons, beta zeolites, resins and hydrotalcite, which are active in continuous-flow hydrogenation of the precursors of relevance to the fine and pharmaceutical industries. The project’s primary result is to create a relationship between the structure of catalysts and their reactivity in the continuous flow hydrogenation processes towards the formation of  pharmaceutical intermediates. This project is a part of the current global trend in green chemistry research, which concentrates on affording simplified workup and large-scale synthesis (scalability), handling various substrates in sequence with the same catalyst, and reducing catalyst amount.

Postdoc will be recruited to participate in all parts of the project, especially including:

• the synthesis of new catalysts,
• the thorough characterization of the catalysts by physicochemical methods,
• catalytic tests in a modern high-pressure reactor,
• data analysis, writing reports and scientific publications,
• scientific initiative and contribution through regular reporting and publishing, as well as presenting at group meetings, national and international conferences;
• providing help and supervision to junior members of the group;
• contribution to the efficient functioning of the lab, including necessary administrative tasks.

• 15-month full time work contract;
• Work in the outstanding scientific institution in the dynamic research group;
• Engagement into an ambitious research program and possibility to build the academic career.

We offer work in a young, dynamically developing team with modern research infrastructure. Funds are allocated to cover participation in international conferences and for short visits in collaborating laboratories.

The successful candidate will be able to take advantage of all programs in the IPC PAS, including Young Scientists of IPC PAS competition and Mobility of Young Scientists of IPC PAS competition. The Institute provides an opportunity to participate in ERASMUS+ program.

Moreover we offer: benefits including a reduced rate for an individual private medical healthcare package and membership in the MultiSport programme and full technical, administrative and organisational support from professional English-speaking personnel.

• PhD degree in chemistry obtained not earlier than 7 years before the engagement in the project (this period might be longer due to family reasons (according to NCN rules).
• Experience in the heterogeneous catalysis and in the field of standard physicochemical  characterization methods (XPS, XRD, SEM)
• Experience in the synthesis of powder catalysts and knowledge of using Origin software will be an asset
• Proficiency in spoken and written English
• Ability to work independently as well as in a group.

The Commission will take into account the following criteria:

• Competence for specific tasks in a research project (max 60 points)
• Previous scientific achievements (publication record, H-index etc.) (max 30 points)
• Awards and distinctions of the candidate resulting from the conducted research (10 points).

The commission evaluates applications on a point scale (max 100 points).