Postdoctoral position

Department of Polymer Particles

Opened research scientist position in the Department of Polymer Particles in the Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry CAS, Heyrovskeho nám. 1888/2, Prague 6, Czech Republic. Tender for the position is in agreement with law n. 283/1992 Sb. about Academy of Czech Sciences amended by act n. 420/2005Sb.

Postdoctoral position - Department of Polymer Particles

Job description and responsibilities:

The Department of Polymer Particles focuses on the development of surface-modified nano- and microsystems with conjugated biomolecules and their application in cell and tissue imaging, as well as in the diagnosis and therapy of serious diseases such as cancer and diabetes. Examples of systems currently under study include magnetic and light-upconverting nanoparticles and hydrogel carriers.

The successful candidate will conduct independent, concept-driven research in the field of novel stimuli responsive nano- and microparticulate systems, control of their architecture, as well as design of hybrid materials and biocompatible polymers containing reactive functional groups, in particular:

Light-upconverting or magnetic nano- and microparticles for bioimaging, targeted drug delivery, and controlled drug release
Hybrid materials for targeting specific cells
Biocompatible polymer systems that ensure colloidal and chemical stability and enable the conjugation of specific biomolecules using the following experimental methods:
Electron microscopy (TEM, SEM) accompanied with the determination of particle size and dispersity
Dynamic light scattering (DLS)
Crystal structure analysis, thermogravimetric analysis
Spectroscopic techniques (FTIR, UV-Vis, NMR)
Work with reactors
Knowledge of working with hydrogels and scaffolds is also required.

The position also includes interpreting experimental data, publishing research results in high-impact journals, and actively participating in national and international research projects.

More information about the department and ongoing research projects is available at the web page of the department.

Requirements:

We are looking for a candidate who has:

A PhD. degree (or equivalent) in Materials Science, Chemistry, Macromolecular Chemistry, or a related field, defended no later than 2 years from the application deadline
Demonstrable hands-on experience with particle preparation and above-mentioned techniques of characterization
Knowledge of testing of chemical and colloidal stability of particles and their biocompatibility
An outstanding publication record: at least 8 scientific publications (as author or co-author)
Very good knowledge of spoken and written English
An active, creative, and independent approach to scientific problem-solving
Ability to work both independently and effectively within a team.

We offer:

Stimulating and diverse work at a prestigious research institution
Participation in national and international research projects
Subsidized meals and on-site cafeteria
5 weeks of annual leave plus 3 sick days
Professional training and career development
Employee benefits (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 and recreational facilities and additional employee benefit

Additional information:

Application deadline: 10 July 2026
Expected start date: 01 August 2026
Place of work: Prague, Czech Republic

For further information about the position, please contact:
Dr. Daniel Horák, PhD., e-mail: horak

How to Apply:

Interested candidates are invited to submit:

A CV
A list of publications
A motivation letter

to the Human Resources Department of the Institute: e-mail: personalni

Contact person: Petra Valešová, Human Resources Department
+420 296 809 385

By responding to this advertisement, you provide the Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry CAS with your personal data for the purpose of conducting the selection procedure and potentially concluding an employment contract or an agreement on work performed outside an employment relationship. Processing of your personal data is necessary for the performance of a contract or in order to take steps at the request of the data subject prior to entering into a contract pursuant to Article 6(1)(b) of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Your personal data will be processed only to the extent necessary and only for the duration of the selection procedure for the respective position. No decisions based solely on automated decision-making or profiling will be made during the processing of your personal data. Your personal data will be appropriately secured and will not be disclosed to third parties. In accordance with applicable legal regulations, you are informed that you have the right to (i) access your personal data, (ii) rectify or complete personal data, (iii) request the erasure of personal data, (iv) request restriction of processing of personal data, (v) exercise the right to data portability, (vi) object to the processing of personal data, and (vii) lodge a complaint with the supervisory authority, the Office for Personal Data Protection (Úřad pro ochranu osobních údajů).