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The project explores innovative reactiondiffusion (RD) systems as a platform for the self-assembly of advanced materials, including hierarchical patterns and tubular architectures. It focuses on two bioinspired strategies: periodic precipitation (PP) and chemobrionic systems, which enable the construction of functional architectures from nanoparticles and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). By harnessing non-equilibrium dynamics, similar to those found in natural processes, the research addresses key scientific questions about RD-driven selfassembly while also seeking methods with practical relevance.

The first line of investigation is periodic precipitation, where controlled diffusion and reaction kinetics give rise to regularly spaced bands of precipitate, known as Liesegang rings, within porous matrices. These systems will be exploited to assemble hierarchical structures, with morphology and band spacing precisely tuned through variations in reactant concentration, matrix porosity, ionic strength, and temperature. The second direction, chemobrionic systems, focuses on the emergence of hollow tubular structures in diffusion-controlled settings. By employing nanoparticles and MOFs as the fundamental building blocks, the study aims to achieve fine control over geometry, dimensions, and material properties of the resulting architectures.

This interdisciplinary project combines expertise in materials science, chemistry, and nanotechnology. It will provide significant insights into RD systems and their potential to simplify the synthesis of complex materials, laying the groundwork for future breakthroughs in nanotechnology and materials design.

Postdoc will be involved in designing and optimizing reaction-diffusion (RD) setups to achieve the self-assembly of hierarchical and tubular structures from nanoparticles and MOFs, including both periodic precipitation and chemobrionic systems, as well as in developing multiplexed strategies to control RD processes and create multicomponent, multifunctional structures with tailored properties. Responsibilities:

• Designing, planning, and carrying out experimental work independently, maintaining regular research notes.

• 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.

We offer a post-doctoral position (fulltime employment) in the Institute of Physical Chemistry PAS with a gross salary of Around 11 666 PLN gross gross per month financed from the NCN OPUS 28, 2024/55/B/ST5/02500, Controlling Reaction-Diffusion Mechanisms for Advanced Self-Assembled Architectures: Periodic Precipitation and Chemical Gardens 100% of the work time of Postdoc will be devoted to the realization of the proposed project. The offer is for 18 months with possible extensions based on the performance.

The successful candidate will benefit in the form of new knowledge and methods added to his/her toolbox. The project deals with nanotechnology, physics, material sciences, and physical chemistry, so a broad range of candidates will find new knowledge to be gained upon the realization of the project. We plan to publish the results of the work in high-impact factor journals. The successful candidate will be eligible for all programs at the IPC PAS, including the IPC PAS Young Scientists competition and the IPC PAS Young Scientists Mobility competition. Institute provides an opportunity to participate in ERASMUS+ programme.

1. PhD degree in chemical or physical sciences, obtained no earlier than 12 years before the starting year of employment in the project (this period might be longer in the case of women due to family reasons (according to NCN rules).

2. Publication record and rich scientific experience.

3. Ability to work independently as well as in a group.

4. Knowledge of the synthesis and characterization of nanostructures and polymers.

5. Ability to communicate fluently in English (written and spoken).

6. Strong motivation to work and pursue scientific questions, creativity, and analytical thinking.

7. Research experience in related fields will be advantageous

The Commission will take into account the following criteria:

a) competencies of candidates for specific tasks in a research project,

b) previous scientific achievements of candidates,

c) awards and distinctions of the candidate resulting from the conducted research.

The commission evaluates applications on a point scale.