Postdoctoral researcher within SONATA 21 project – Interfacial Engineering Full-time NEW

We are looking for a highly motivated researcher to work on engineering of liquid metals. The project explores morphology and spatial composition of the surface of liquid metals and its behavior upon modification with macromolecular surfactants. The study is not trivial as such interfaces are highly dynamic and their minor modifications may lead to dramatic consequences on series of properties, such as chemical reactivity, rheology, or conductivity. Understanding interfacial chemistry of liquid metals is essential in the development of novel materials for soft robotics, wearable electronics, or power generators.

Join the group of Dr. Mocny to conduct this exciting project at the University of Warsaw, a top research institution in Poland. Warsaw is a vibrant and dynamic city in the center of Poland that was largely rebuilt after II WW. It has a rich cultural heritage, and diverse social scene. It offers wealth of cultural, social and educational opportunities.

Tasks

• Synthesis of liquid metals nanoobjects
• Synthesis of polymer-based surfactants via controlled radical polymerization (ATRP, RAFT)
• Characterization of polymers (GPC, NMR, FTIR)
• Chemical and morphological analysis of liquid metals (XPS, TEM, SEM)
• Mechanical analysis of liquid metal-based composite materials (tensile tests, rheology)
• Assembly of demo devices (sensors, actuators, radiators)

Requirements

• Enthusiasm for science, especially interfacial phenomena at the nanoscale
• PhD degree in Chemistry or Materials Science
• Hands-on experience with air-free techniques (Schlenk line, deoxygenation techniques)
• Knowledge of characterization tools of polymers and nanoparticles
• Excellent English
• Excellent writing and presenting skills

PI

Dr Mocny is specialized in controlled radical polymerization, such as ATRP and RAFT polymerization, in modification of flat substrates (silica wafers, glass), nanoparticles (silica, liquid metal), and bulk materials (polyolefins, fluoropolymers). During his stay at EPFL in Switzerland (Prof. H.-A. Klok, Prof. H. Frauenrath) and at Carnegie Mellon University in the USA (Prof. K. Matyjaszewski), he gained extensive knowledge in modern radical polymerization techniques. He often seeks what seems impossible, e.g. how to do SI-ATRP on a surface of a reducing metal, or how to detect undetectable (one chemical group within 1000-unit long polymer chain).

Please contact the PI if you like to explore the realm of liquid metals!

The initial contract will be signed for one year with possibility for an extension up to 3 years.

Dr. Piotr Mocny

Department of Chemistry, University of Warsaw

Biological and Chemical Research Centre