Research Scientist

About The FSTM

The University of Luxembourg is an international research university with a distinctly multilingual and interdisciplinary character.

The Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine (FSTM) at the University of Luxembourg contributes multidisciplinary expertise in the fields of Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science, Life Sciences and Medicine.

Through its dual mission of teaching and research, the FSTM seeks to generate and disseminate knowledge and train new generations of responsible citizens in order to better understand, explain and advance society and environment we live in.

Your role

The Experimental Soft Matter Physics group is recruiting a permanent group member to work directly with Prof. Jan Lagerwall, supporting excellence in research, supervision, and outreach. The Research Scientist will contribute to all research activities and actively supervise Ph.D. candidates, thesis students, and junior post-doctoral researchers. A key responsibility is maintaining the group's laboratory equipment, ensuring it is in good working order, and training researchers for independent use. This includes equipment such as polarizing optical microscopes, a confocal microscope, a scanning electron microscope, spectrophotometers, a profilometer, microfluidic setups, electrospinning equipment, ultrasonication equipment, a critical point dryer, 3D printers, and devices for environmental control. The Research Scientist will also provide laboratory safety training and promote good scientific practice. Further duties include managing materials and equipment inventories, assisting with event organization, and contributing to teaching and project supervision. The Research Scientist is encouraged to apply for their own research funding and supervise Ph.D. candidates.

Your profile

The Research Scientist should possess a deep understanding of all aspects of the group’s research or demonstrate the ability to quickly develop such understanding. This requires a strong background in experimental soft matter physics, with a Ph.D., preferably in physics; a Ph.D. in materials science or chemistry may also be appropriate if complemented by extensive subsequent experience in physics research. Furthermore, we expect:

• At least five years of active post-Ph.D. experience with quantitative research methods and practical work in physics or engineering laboratories
• Curiosity, a genuine passion for scientific research, and a desire to advance beyond the current state of the art
• Solid knowledge and understanding of soft matter physics and chemistry, particularly in the optics and mechanics of liquids, liquid crystals, liquid crystal elastomers, polymer solutions, and colloids; polarized light optics; structural color; thermodynamics of phases and phase transitions; and interfacial phenomena and related instabilities
• Openness to interdisciplinary research and a strong commitment to teamwork
• Commitment to and capacity for critical thinking and good research ethics
• Fluent written and verbal communication skills in English
  
  

We offer

• Multilingual and international character. Modern institution with a personal atmosphere. Staff coming from 90 countries. Member of the “University of the Greater Region” (UniGR)
• A modern and dynamic university. High-quality equipment. Close ties to the business world and to the Luxembourg labour market. A unique urban site with excellent infrastructure
• A partner for society and industry. Cooperation with European institutions, innovative companies, the Financial Centre and with numerous non-academic partners such as ministries, local governments, associations, NGOs …
  
  

How to apply

Applications should include:

• Cover letter explaining why you would like to work in the Experimental Soft Matter Physics group and how you see yourself contributing to its mission
• PDF copies of your five most important scientific publications, each accompanied by a short statement explaining why you consider the paper important and what your contributions were
• Curriculum vitae, including a full list of publications and oral conference presentations
• Digital copies of diplomas (Ph.D., M.Sc. if available, and B.Sc
  
  

Early application is highly encouraged, as the applications will be processed upon reception. Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by Email will not be considered.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. In line with our values, the University of Luxembourg promotes an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are dedicated to upholding equality and respect for our employees and students.

General information:

• Contract Type: Permanent
• Work Hours: Full Time 40.0 Hours per Week
• Location: Campus Limpertsberg
• Internal Title: Research scientist
• Job Reference: UOL07351