Postdoc Position in Materials Chemistry at the Mads Clausen Institute

We are seeking an enthusiastic new colleague as a postdoctoral research associate in the field of Materials Chemistry with a strong background, particularly in Solid State Chemistry and (Photo)electrochemistry, and interest in industrial applications and cooperation to join the Mads Clausen Institute (MCI) at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) in Sønderborg, Denmark. The position is for three years with an expected starting date 1.1.25 or as soon as possible. 

MCI is a part of the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) and covers research and education including applications of engineering sciences. Our working language is English, reflecting the fact that far more than half of our students and staff are internationals. We are located at SDU’s beautiful campus in Sønderborg, in the inspiring building of Alsion, which is a centre for science, culture and learning in the heart of Sønderborg and perched on the strait of water separating the island of Als from the mainland. The university has very close relations with industries in Sønderborg, Southern Denmark, and Northern Germany.

The successful candidate is expected to carry out research mainly within a project funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation. The project is hosted by the nanotechnology centre NanoSYD, a part of MCI. The research work involves the synthesis and characterization of novel compounds based on mixed anion compounds (e.g., transition metal (oxy)nitrides) and the evaluation of their performance in solar water splitting. Also, the successful candidate is expected to be actively involved in the supervision of MSc and PhD students affiliated with SDU NanoSYD, preparing project reports, presentations, and publications as well as writing project proposals for supporting research at SDU NanoSYD. 

Job Description and Responsibilities

• Implementation of research tasks related to the project;
• Collaborative and independent research planning, materials synthesis and characterization, and evaluation of materials performance in solar water splitting;
• Independent characterization, data analysis, and interpretation of research results;
• Scientific communication and presentation of research results at group seminars, scientific conferences, project meetings, etc.;
• Publishing of project results in international peer-reviewed scientific journals with high-impact factors.

Potential Responsibilities 

• Supervision of BSc, MSc, and exchange/visiting students who perform research works on similar research topics; 
• Assistance in teaching activities; 
• Assistance in the preparation of grant proposals for external funding. 

Mandatory qualifications 

• PhD degree in Materials Science, Materials Chemistry, Solid State Chemistry, Solid State Physics, Electrochemistry, or related fields; 
• Proven hands-on experience and knowledge of various synthesis methods in solid-state chemistry, preferably the methods used for the synthesis of mixed-anion compounds;
• Technical skills in materials characterization techniques (e.g., XRD, XPS, SEM, etc.);   
• Proven track record of publishing in international peer-reviewed scientific journals as first author;
• Fluency in English (both spoken and written);
• Ability to work in teams and also independently; 
• Strong communication skills; 
• Willingness to collaborate with other scientists and industry. 

Following qualifications are advantageous

• Research experience in X-ray, synchrotron, and neutron radiation facilities;
• Research experience in electrochemistry and solar water splitting; 
• Technical skills in scientific illustration and animation to deliver visual knowledge of the project; 
• Proven record in participating in national and international research projects;
• Strong interest in a long-term commitment to a growing research group.

Application procedure:

Before applying all candidates are expected to read the SDU information on how to apply and specific faculty information for application at the Faculty of Engineering.    

The application shall include the following documents in English: 

• One-page motivation letter that describes the applicant’s previous research work and experience most relevant to the offered position.
• Curriculum Vitae. 
• Certificates/Diplomas (Bachelor, Master, and PhD degrees) – Danish and/or English transcripts. 
• Complete list of publications (please highlight publications most relevant to the offered position).
• Research statement on developing novel transition metal-based mixed anion compounds, particularly (oxy)nitrides, for solar water splitting.
• A reference letter may be submitted, but is not required. 

UPLOAD GUIDE: Motivated application shall be uploaded as ‘Cover letter’, Curriculum Vitae shall be uploaded as ‘Resume’. All other documents shall be uploaded as ‘Miscellaneous documents’.  

If you experience technical problems, please contact hcm-support@sdu.dk. 

Conditions of employment 

Employment as a Postdoc is temporary and for 3 years and it starts as soon as possible or latest on 01.01.2025. 

Employment as a postdoc requires scientific qualifications at PhD level at the time of employment.  

The successful applicant will be employed in accordance with the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. Further information on salary and taxation. 

Assessment and selection process 

Read about the Assessment and selection process.  

Applications will be assessed by an assessment committee. Shortlisting may be applied. Only shortlisted candidates will receive a written assessment. Read about shortlisting at SDU.  

Interviews and tests may be part of the process. 

The application deadline is August 31st, 2024 at 11.59 PM/23.59 (CET/CEST).

Formalities 

According to the University of Southern Denmark’s internal guidelines, there must be at least three qualified applicants to an academic position before it can be filled. 

Documents should not contain a CPR number (civil registration number) – in this case, the CPR number must be crossed out. 

The application and CV must not exceed 10 MB.  

The University of Southern Denmark wishes to reflect the surrounding community and therefore encourages everyone, regardless of personal background, to apply for the position. 

Further information for international applicants about entering and working in Denmark. You may also visit WorkinDenmark for additional information. 

Further information about The Faculty of Engineering. 

About Us

SDU creates value for and with society and shapes the future through high quality, talented people and outstanding environments. The University of Southern Denmark is a world-class university deeply rooted the the Region of Southern Denmark. Since it's founding, SDU has been driven by an ambition to promote research results that develop society.

The major challenges of the 21st century are complex and multifaceted; sustainable change and solutions require new - often interdisciplinary - research-based knowledge, and the University of Southern Denmark is an indispensable stakeholder in the transition process.