Postdoctoral researcher in mechano-Raman imaging of polymers

Updated: 4 days ago
Job Type: FullTime
Deadline: 26 Apr 2026

1 Apr 2026
Job Information
Organisation/Company

Adolphe Merkle Institute
Research Field

Chemistry » Organic chemistry
Chemistry » Instrumental techniques
Researcher Profile

Recognised Researcher (R2)
Positions

Postdoc Positions
Application Deadline

26 Apr 2026 - 00:00 (Europe/Zurich)
Country

Switzerland
Type of Contract

Temporary
Job Status

Full-time
Hours Per Week

42
Offer Starting Date

1 May 2026
Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?

Not funded by a EU programme
Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?

No

Offer Description

The Adolphe Merkle Institute’s Mechanoresponsive Materials Group (Asst. Prof. Jessica M. Clough) invites applications for a postdoctoral position on “Vibrational Mapping of Mechanical Deformation in Polymers”.

Project:

The project aims to develop a novel mechano-Raman imaging platform to map mechanical deformation in polymeric materials with high sensitivity. By combining the design of vibrational force probes with advanced Raman microscopy, this work will enable “greyscale” detection of molecular-level forces and provide new insight into early-stage damage processes in polymers.

The research will focus on the synthesis of Raman-active molecular probes, their incorporation into polymer materials, and the correlation of spectroscopic response with mechanical deformation. The project will be carried out in close collaboration with Prof. Andreas Zumbusch (University of Konstanz), providing access to state-of-the-art Raman imaging techniques.

The successful candidate will join a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment and contribute to multiple aspects of the project, including molecular design, materials preparation and characterisation, and the development of microscopy methodologies.

Requirements:

Applicants should hold a PhD in organic chemistry, polymer chemistry, materials science, or a related field. Candidates must have:

  • Experience in organic synthesis, polymer synthesis or polymer materials
  • Interest in interdisciplinary research at the interface of chemistry and materials science
  • Interest in microscopy

Experience in polymer characterisation techniques is highly desirable. Prior exposure to spectroscopy or microscopy is an advantage but not required.

The ability to advance a complex project both independently and as part of a team, strong communication skills, and proficiency in English are essential.

We offer:

AMI offers attractive employment conditions, a highly collaborative research environment, and outstanding infrastructure in a state-of-the-art research facility. The institute is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect, and provides equal opportunities for all its members. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates.

The position is available immediately for an initial period of one year with the possibility of extension to two years (90-100%).

To apply, please send your CV, a brief statement of research interests, and contact details for two references as a single PDF file via email to jessica.clough@unifr.ch by 26th April 2026, with the subject line “Postdoc Mechano-Raman”.

Informal enquiries are welcome.


Where to apply
E-mail

jessica.clough@unifr.ch

Requirements
Research Field
Chemistry » Other
Education Level
PhD or equivalent

Skills/Qualifications
  • Experience in organic synthesis, polymer synthesis or polymer materials
  • Interest in interdisciplinary research at the interface of chemistry and materials science
  • Interest in microscopy

Languages
ENGLISH
Level
Good

Research Field
Chemistry » Organic chemistry
Years of Research Experience
4 - 10

Additional Information
Work Location(s)
Number of offers available
1
Company/Institute
Adolphe Merkle Institute, University of Fribourg
Country
Switzerland
City
Fribourg
Postal Code
1700
Street
Chemin des Verdiers 4
Geofield


Contact
State/Province

Switzerland
City

Fribourg
Website

http://www.ami.swiss
Street

Chemin des Verdiers 4
Postal Code

1700
E-Mail

jessica.clough@unifr.ch
Phone

+41 26 300 9254

STATUS: EXPIRED

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