Selection Procedures
Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS announces an open competition in accordance with the Act No. 283/1992 Coll. on the Czech Academy of Sciences, and the Statutes of the Czech Academy of Sciences for a position Head of Department – Polymer Particles.
Head of Department – Polymer Particles
The Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences invites applications for the position of Head of Department of Polymer Particles within the Center for Biomacromolecular and Bioanalogous Systems. The tender for the position agrees with Law No. 283/1992 Sb. about the Czech Academy of Sciences amended by Act No. 420/2005Sb.
The Institute is seeking an accomplished scientist with a strong international research profile, leadership experience, and a vision for developing a dynamic and competitive research program. While the department has a long-standing tradition in the design, synthesis, and application of advanced polymer-based micro- and nanoparticles for biomedical, diagnostic, and environmental applications, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to further shape and redefine the department's scientific direction.
In particular, candidates are encouraged to propose innovative research programs that build on existing expertise while expanding into emerging areas of colloid and interface science, functional soft matter, and the synthesis and applications of porous materials, including Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs) and Covalent Organic Frameworks (COFs).
Further information about the research group and current projects is available at the web page of the department:
Applicant's responsibilities:
- Provide scientific and strategic leadership for the department.
- Develop and implement a long-term research vision and scientific strategy.
- Strengthen existing research excellence while identifying and establishing new research directions.
- Lead, mentor, and support researchers, students, and technical staff.
- Foster interdisciplinary collaborations within the Institute and with national and international partners.
- Secure competitive research funding from national and international sources.
Applicant's experience and profile:
- Ph.D. in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, nanoscience, biotechnology, or a related field.
- An internationally recognized research record demonstrated by high-impact publications and scientific achievements.
- A clear vision for future research development, including the potential expansion of activities in areas such as colloid science, functional nanomaterials, MOFs, COFs, or related fields.
- Effective communication and leadership skills, including coaching and mentoring of students and staff, leading a project, etc.
- Active participation in and/or affinity with management and organizational tasks.
- A solid track record (or excellent potential, appropriate to your career stage) in acquiring external research funding.
- Excellent (written and verbal) proficiency in English.
- Motivation to learn the Czech language within five years (supported by the Institute).
The Institute offers:
- The opportunity to lead and further develop an established research department within one of Europe's leading institutes in polymer and materials science.
- Considerable scientific freedom to define and shape the department's future research profile.
- Access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure and technical support.
- A collaborative and internationally connected research environment.
- Meal allowance and access to an on-site cafeteria located in the institute building.
- Five weeks of annual leave and three days of paid sick leave (health days).
- Employee benefits, including contributions to supplementary pension savings and other retirement savings products, or a flexible benefits card.
- Flexible start and end times of the working day.
- Subsidized language courses organized by the Czech Academy of Sciences.
- Access to training and recreational facilities, along with additional employee benefits.
Application Requirements:
Applicants should submit to the email address personalni@umch.cz (Mrs. Petra Valešová, Personal Office, tel. +420 296 809 385) by 30. 9. 2026.
- Curriculum vitae.
- List of publications and major scientific achievements.
- A statement of research vision and leadership strategy for the department (up to 3 pages), including plans for future scientific development.
- Contact details of at least three referees.
The Institute is committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from qualified candidates regardless of gender, nationality, age, disability, or background.
Starting date: 1. 1. 2027
For further details on the offered position do not hesitate to contact Ing. Patrycja Bober, PhD., (bober@imc.cas.cz; phone: +420 296 809 450).
Application deadline: 09/30/2026