We are currently looking for an enthusiastic and highly motivated candidate for a postdoctoral position in the field of quantum solid-state physics/quantum chemistry and computational modelling.
Join the Department of surfaces and molecular structures (at FZU in its mission to perform cutting-edge research at the Nanosurf Lab https://nanosurf.fzu.cz/).
What you will do
Simulation of reaction mechanisms of on-surface synthesis
- Explore in detail the reaction mechanisms of selected cases of on-surface reactions that lead to the formation of novel molecular compounds not achievable by solution chemistry
- The DFT and QM/MM simulations should shed light on existing experimental data and also help identify new reaction mechanisms to stimulate further experiments
Electronic structure of strongly correlated molecular systems on surfaces
- Modelling of the electronic structure of multiradical molecular systems on surfaces using many-body calculations (CAS, DMRG), including the ground and excited states
- Interpretation of experimental SPM measurements of multiradical molecules in terms of Kondo, Dyson, and natural transition orbital
- Development of a many-body model Hamiltonian to capture the influence of the surface on the radical character of the molecule (mixed valence regime, renormalization of excitation spectra, etc.)
- Collaboration with in-house experimental activities, as well as in partnership with internationally renowned experimental groups
- Preparation of manuscripts for internationally recognized journals and presentation of results at international conferences through oral presentations
- Participation in supervision and experimental guidance of students
What we expect
- PhD degree in condensed matter physics, material science, or physical chemistry
- Solid understanding of quantum solid-state physics/quantum chemistry
- Understanding of computational modelling
- Knowledge of a programming language is desirable
- Publication record with a clear contribution of the candidate in physical studies on frustrated or low-dimensional magnetic systems
- Good knowledge of English (written and spoken)
- Excellent writing skills concerning the preparation of manuscripts
- Ability to communicate and present results through talks and oral presentations
Why join us
- Interesting work in a cutting-edge field within the scope of our department
- Access to excellent research infrastructure
- Participation in multidisciplinary scientific projects
- Support from HR, Welcome Office
- Collaborative and friendly environment
- 5 weeks of vacation + 6 days of personal leave
- Meal allowance, own canteen in the area
- Language courses (English, Czech, etc.) at the workplace
- Online health platform u Lékaře.cz 24/7
- Possibility to use the recreational facilities of the FZU in the Krkonoše mountains
- Outdoor sports facilities (tennis, volleyball, yoga), Multisport card and other benefits
- Find out more about us - Why FZU?
Good to know
- Place of work: Cukrovarnická, Prague 6 – Střešovice
- Start of employment: February/ March 2026
- Full-time
- 1-year contract (possible extension up to 2 years upon mutual agreement) and possible renewal of the contract beyond this period
- We expect applications by 15th January 2026
Interested candidates are invited to apply by sending the following documents via the application form: A cover letter detailing career objectives and research interests, curriculum vitae (CV) including a list of publications, one reference letters and transcripts of degrees/diplomas.
We look forward to hearing from you!