Postdoctoral Researcher – Development of Parahydrogen-Induced Polarization for Hyperpolarized NMR

Your Job:

If you are interested in creative problem solving at the interface between chemistry and physics, that combines hands-on experimental work with theory and simulations, this opportunity may be for you!

In this position, you will be part of the Hyperpolarization Methods research group, led by Dr. James Eills at the Institute for Structural Biochemistry, responsible for implementing new chemical and physical methods to expand the range of molecules that can be polarized using parahydrogen-induced polarization (PHIP). This will entail the use of novel polarization transfer methods in both the solid-state and solution-state, with the goal of developing a simple approach for hyperpolarizing arbitrary molecules. You will work closely within a team, carrying out the following tasks:

• Constructing hyperpolarization equipment
• Conducting experiments using benchtop and high-field NMR
• Writing and implementing NMR pulse sequences
• Using cryogenics for extending polarization lifetimes in small molecules
• Preparation of scientific publications and grant proposals
• Presentation of research at international conferences.

You will have the opportunity to develop the research in different directions, such as MRI applications for animal imaging, or theory and simulations of the spin dynamics.

Your Profile:

We are looking for a candidate to bring different qualities to the position:

Essential:

• A PhD in chemistry/physics or related area
• Experience with NMR, MRI, or hyperpolarization technologies
• Experience in working within multidisciplinary and collaborative research environments
• Proven high-level problem-solving skills
• Demonstrated capacity to work productively within a team
• A track record of scientific publishing and presentation of scientific results at conferences
• Good knowledge in spoken English

Advantageous:

• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python/Matlab
• Experience of supervising bachelors- or masters-level students
• Experience in writing grant applications
• International experience

Candidates with a strong background in chemical synthesis that wish to broaden their skill-set by combining their strength in chemical design with innovative molecular spectroscopy approaches are also encouraged to apply.

Our Offer:

In the research group you will work in an environment that combines the best parts of modern science with traditional academic values. You will carry out fast-paced research on societally-relevant topics, with individual support (especially for your personal well-being) so you can grow as an individual. At the same time, you will have ample opportunity for acquiring knowledge, discussing science, and thinking creatively.

Benefits of the role:

• Contribute to high impact science in a rapidly growing research field linking quantum technologies and biomedicine
• Further your research career in a supportive, collaborative environment
• Exciting working environment on an attractive research campus with very good infrastructure, located in the middle of the Cologne-Düsseldorf-Aachen triangle
• International and interdisciplinary working environment
• Specific services for international employees, e.g. through our International Advisory Service
• Flexible work (location) arrangements, e.g. remote work
• 30 days of annual leave and provision for days off between public holidays and weekends (e.g. between Christmas and New Year)

You will be supported within the research group and will be encouraged to grow professionally towards future career stages, either in academia, industry, or beyond. The working group is an environment in which curiosity and excitement to do novel science can flourish. FZ Jülich offers support measures for postdocs for careers within and outside of science, including the following service and networking opportunities: Career Center & Postdoc Office, Young Excellent Scientist Program, Postdoc community, Mentoring, Postdoc Training program.

Interested parties should apply through the portal (link below) by uploading a CV and cover letter. Please underline in the cover letter how you meet the essential job requirements, and include contact details of two referees.

We offer you an exciting and varied role in an international and interdisciplinary working environment. The position is for a fixed term of 2 years, with possible long-term prospects. Salary and social benefits will conform to the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund), pay group EG 13, depending on the applicant’s qualifications and the precise nature of the tasks assigned to them.

In addition to exciting tasks and a collaborative working atmosphere at Jülich, we have a lot more to offer: https://go.fzj.de/benefits

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.