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 Postdoctoral Position in X-ray and NMR Crystallography of Polymers and Macrocyclic Compounds.
Postdoctoral Position in X-ray and NMR Crystallography of Polymers and Macrocyclic Compounds
Department of Structural Analysis
Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences
Job description and responsibilities
The Department of Structural Analysis investigates the structure, molecular organization, and dynamics of polymers and other materials using NMR spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and computational methods.
The successful candidate will conduct independent research in X-ray and NMR crystallography of polymers and macrocyclic compounds, particularly their metal complexes. The research will integrate diffraction and spectroscopic data with computational modelling to determine molecular conformations, local coordination environments, intermolecular interactions, and solid-state organization.
The main research topics will include:
- Synthesis and structural characterization of metal complexes with DOTA- and DOTAM-based macrocyclic ligands.
- Investigation of relationships between molecular structure, coordination geometry, and NMR parameters.
- Development and application of multidimensional solid-state NMR experiments at very high magnetic fields and very fast magic-angle spinning, including inverse-detected experiments with ¹H detection.
- Application of computational methods to interpret experimental data and validate structural models.
- Extension of NMR crystallography approaches to polymer systems, focusing on local organization and relationships between structure and molecular dynamics.
The research will primarily involve the following methods:
- Single-crystal and powder X-ray diffraction, diffraction data processing, and structural refinement.
- Multinuclear solution and solid-state NMR spectroscopy.
- Two-dimensional heteronuclear and homonuclear correlation solid-state NMR experiments.
- Inverse-detected solid-state NMR experiments with ¹H detection at very high magnetic fields and MAS frequencies above 60 kHz.
- Analysis and simulation of NMR spectra and comparison of experimental and calculated NMR parameters.
The position also involves experimental design, integrated interpretation of diffraction and spectroscopic data, preparation of scientific publications, and presentation of results at scientific conferences. Active participation in national and international research projects and collaboration with students are expected.
Requirements
- A Ph.D. degree or equivalent in chemistry, physical chemistry, materials science, or a related discipline.
- Hands-on experience in the synthesis and characterization of metal complexes with DOTA- or DOTAM-based macrocyclic ligands.
- Hands-on experience in X-ray structural analysis, including diffraction data processing and crystal structure refinement.
- Hands-on experience in solid-state NMR spectroscopy and interpretation of NMR spectra.
- Hands-on experience in performing solid-state NMR experiments at very high magnetic fields and very fast magic-angle spinning (MAS frequencies above 60 kHz), including inverse-detected experiments with ¹H detection.
- Ability to integrate diffraction, spectroscopic, and computational results to address structural questions.
- A publication record in international peer-reviewed journals appropriate to the candidate’s career stage and research experience.
- Very good command of spoken and written English, at least at the B2 level.
- A proactive, creative, and independent approach to scientific research.
- Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively within a team.
Experience in applying quantum-chemical calculations to the interpretation of NMR data and in the structural characterization of polymer systems would be an advantage.
We offer
- Stimulating and varied work at a prestigious research institution.
- Research facilities supporting the integration of X-ray diffraction, NMR spectroscopy, and computational methods.
- Participation in national and international research projects.
- Professional training and support for scientific and career development.
- A meal allowance and an on-site cafeteria.
- Five weeks of annual leave and three sick days.
- Employee benefits, including contributions to pension insurance and long-term savings schemes or a leisure benefit card.
- Flexible working hours.
- Subsidized language courses organized by the Czech Academy of Sciences.
- Access to training, sports, and recreational facilities, along with additional employee benefits.
Additional information
Application deadline: 30.11.2026
Expected start date: 1.1.2027
Place of work: Heyrovského nám. 2, Prague 6, Czech Republic.
For further information about the position, please contact:
Jiří Brus, Ph.D., DSc., Head of the Department of Structural Analysis
Email: brus@imc.cas.cz
How to apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit the following documents:
- A curriculum vitae.
- A list of publications.
- A motivation letter briefly describing their experience relevant to the position.
Please send your application to the Institute’s Human Resources Department at personalni@umch.cz.
For enquiries regarding the application procedure, please contact the Human Resources Department at +420 296 809 385.
Application deadline: 11/30/2026