2 Postdoc Positions (m/f/d)

Job Description

The Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics, Halle (Saale), Germany, Department of Synthetic Materials and Functional Devices (SMFD), is seeking 2 motivated Postdoctoral Scientists to join our FhG-MPG GENIUS project.

Within our department, we develop unprecedented 2D polymer and their heterostructure membranes featuring selective, highly permeable, and unidirectional ion transport, aiming to establish fundamental principles for next-generation separation technologies. Beyond materials synthesis, we seek to uncover new ion-transport physics and interfacial phenomena, supported by cutting‑edge characterization techniques and theoretical modeling. These efforts further extend toward the integration of 2D polymer‑based membranes into iontronics and sustainable energy devices, thereby bridging fundamental discovery with device‑level functionality.

Your Tasks

The selected candidates will be part of the 2D Polymer and Interfacial Synthesis Group led by Dr. Zhiyong Wang. The specific tasks include:

• Designing and synthesizing crystalline 2D polymers and 2D polymer heterostructure membranes via on‑water surface synthesis, with precise control over molecular architecture, surface charge, and proximity effect.
• Investigating proton and ion transport to uncover emergent transport physics and non‑trivial phenomena enabled by 2D heterostructure.
• Integrating 2D polymer‑based membranes into iontronics and sustainable energy devices, translating fundamental insights into functional device concepts.

Your Profile

The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in membrane science, ion transport physics, and nanofluidic or iontronic devices, with demonstrated ability to translate fundamental understanding into functional systems. Applicants should hold a PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering, or a closely related discipline. Proven experience in experimental data acquisition, quantitative data analysis, and critical interpretation is essential, while experience in project coordination and collaborative research is highly desirable. The successful candidate is expected to work independently and responsibly, while actively contributing to a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment. Fluency in written and spoken English is required.

We Offer

Joining the Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics offers a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of scientific research. We provide a stimulating environment with numerous benefits, including:

• An exciting and challenging position in an international and attractive working environment, and the opportunity to interact with a wide network of international collaborators
• Cutting‑edge infrastructure: Access to state‑of‑the‑art facilities for membrane synthesis, ion transport study, and device fabrication.
• Flexible working hours and substantial remuneration amounting to 100% EG13 TVoeD‑Bund
• An initial contract duration of 24 months
• The planned starting date is April 1st, 2026

How to apply

The Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics gives priority to applications from severely disabled candidates with equivalent qualifications. Furthermore, we strive to increase the proportion of female employees and therefore specifically encourage women to apply.

Please send your application, including:

• A cover letter
• Your CV, including a publication list
• Contact details of two scientists who can provide references

Until February 28th, 2025