Postdoctoral Researcher

The European Spallation Source (ESS) is one of the largest science and technology infrastructure projects being built today. ESS will soon be the world's most powerful source of neutrons, providing researchers with unique opportunities to explore the structure of materials at the atomic level. Neutron scattering at ESS will address critical questions in physics, chemistry, geology, materials science and life science.

We are now inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Small-Angle Neutron Scattering of Biocompatible Microgels. Small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) is a powerful technique for investigating the structure and dynamics of scientifically and technologically important soft and complex materials across nanometre-to-micrometre length scales. Energy materials, biomaterials, colloidal systems, and functional nanostructures are prime examples of systems whose properties and performance depend critically on hierarchical structures and processes occurring over these length scales.

This project focuses on developing and characterising a new class of biocompatible thermoresponsive microgels for biomedical and soft matter applications. The work combines neutron scattering, rheology, advanced sample environments, and molecular simulations to understand how the internal structure and softness of poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) (PVCL) microgels influence their behaviour in dense suspensions and under flow.

The goals are:

• Develop an understanding of the structure, mechanics, and flow behaviour of PVCL microgels
• Develop and implement a 1,2-shear cell for rheo-SANS and rheo-SAXS experiments at ESS and MAX IV, that will allow to measure scattered intensity in the velocity-gradient plane, the most sensitive to shear-induced deformations.
• Combine neutron scattering experiments with molecular simulations to establish predictive models for soft colloidal systems relevant to biomedical applications

• Collaboration with research groups at ESS, the University of Florence, and Sapienza University of Rome.
• Laboratory work involving synthesis, characterisation, and rheological measurements of PVCL microgels
• Neutron and x-ray scattering experiments at ESS, MAX IV, and international large-scale facilities
• Develop and commission a custom 1,2-shear cell for rheo-SANS/rheo-SAXS measurements. Test and validate the developed sample environment at ESS and leading neutron (e.g., ILL, ISIS) and X-ray facilities (e.g. Diamond, MaxIV), ensuring reliability and robustness.
• Perform molecular dynamics and coarse-grained simulations of microgels and dense suspensions to quantitatively interpret scattering data and establish universal models for soft colloids
• Conduct and develop independent research in line with the LOKI science case.
• Author scientific and technical publications
• Present scientific and technical research at relevant conferences and workshops.
• Contributing to the commissioning and scientific development of ESS instrumentation

• Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Strong experience in the characterisation of soft colloids
• Experience as a user of large-scale X-ray and/or neutron facilities, including experience in data analysis.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within interdisciplinary teams.
• Proficiency in scientific writing and presentation in English, as evidenced by a strong publication record.
• Willingness and ability to travel internationally for collaborative research and beamtime.

Desirable Qualifications:

• Strong research background in small-angle x-ray and/neutron scattering of soft colloids.
• Programming experience (e.g. Python, Matlab) for data analysis and to perform molecular dynamics and coarse-grained simulations.
• Proficiency in synthesis, characterisation, and rheological measurements of soft colloidal systems.