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The basis for electrochemistry at the interface between immiscible liquids is the difference in solvation energy of different chemical species in different solvents. A large number of compounds of very different structures have been detected using ion transfer at an ITIES, from small inorganic ions, drugs (both legal and illicit), neuro¬trans¬mitters, and environmental pollutants up to large proteins. In many cases, the sensitivity is excellent, with limits of detection well within relevant analytical boundaries, in some cases as low as picomoles per litre. Traditionally, studies of electrochemistry at ITIES are performed in macroscopic glass cells in a 4-electrode setup with counter and reference electrodes at either side of the liquid-liquid interface. In this project we want to perform liquid-liquid electrochemistry in a paper-based setup. Paper has been used in analysis for centuries as the basis for chromatography, but as a support for modern analytical chemistry its use has increased dramatically over the last decades. For the current project, the most important function of paper is its ability to support a liquid within the fibre structure of the paper. The paper can also work as a transport channel to move a liquid sample from one point of the support to a readout or reaction zone in a controlled manner.

A PhD student will be recruited to be responsible for:

• Electrochemical measurements,
• 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.

• 36-month stipend;
• Work in the outstanding scientific institution in a 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.

• MSc degree in chemistry or related area
• Experience electrochemistry.
• Experience in ion-transfer at ITIES and/or paper-based electrochemistry will be an asset
• Proficiency in spoken and written English
• Ability to work independently as well as in a group.
• The candidate must be registered at a Polish doctoral school

• Competence for specific tasks in a research project (30 %)
• Previous scientific achievements (publication record, etc.) (50 %)
• Awards and distinctions of the candidate resulting from the conducted research (20%).