Postdoctoral Researcher: Hydration-Governed Colloidal Stability for Sustainable Nanocellulose | Postdoc Researcher (m/f/d): Hydration-Governed Colloidal Stability for Sustainable Nanocellulose
MPI für Koll.-u.Grenzflächenf.
Job Summary
This Postdoctoral Researcher role, based in Potsdam Science Park, Germany, focuses on bridging sustainable processing with fundamental colloid science to advance eco-efficient production of cellulosic nanomaterials. The successful candidate will conduct innovative research on the colloidal stability of cellulose nanoparticles, connecting interparticle forces, hydration, and dispersion behavior. Day-to-day tasks involve designing and applying advanced surface/interfacial measurement strategies (such as QCM-D, AFM, and scattering techniques) to probe polymer-nanoparticle interactions, developing physicochemical surface modifications, and translating mechanistic insights into practical processing rules. This position is highly attractive as it is embedded within the Max Planck Society’s Sustainability Network (SusMax), offering a stimulating, interdisciplinary environment with access to cutting-edge infrastructure in a world-class research setting.
Required Skills
Education
PhD in Chemistry or Materials Science
Experience
- Proven experience with colloids and soft matter
- Proven experience with surface and interfacial characterization
- Hands-on skills with advanced characterization techniques (e.g., scattering, XPS, AFM, QCM-D, ITC)
- Research experience with nanocellulose (advantageous but not required)
Languages
Additional
- Initial 12-month contract duration with possible extension; Position located in Potsdam Science Park, Germany; Must be able to work independently and in teams.