Postdoctoral Researcher – Nanoscale Thermal Transport

Postdoctoral Researcher – Nanoscale Thermal Transport

Job Reference: 64. 25. 447

Employer: International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL)

Location: Braga, Portugal

Group/Unit: Sotomayor Research Group

Number of Vacancies: 1

Employment Type: Full time

Contract Duration: 24 months

Open Date for Applications: November 6, 2025

Closing Date for Applications: November 26, 2025, 23:00 (Lisbon Time)

Overview

We are part of the Sotomayor Research Group, which conducts research in nanophononics, including nano‑scale thermal transport, phononic crystals, opto‑mechanics, thermoelectricity, acoustic metamaterials, topological bosonics, and NOEMS. The group, led by Professor Sotomayor Torres, is a partner in several European projects (MUSICIAN, LEIT, MAGNIFIC, NEUROPIC, SPARK‑e). The position is in the SPARK‑e project.

Job Duties

• Carry out planned and new experiments, analyze data, and prepare manuscripts.
• Advance experimental methods to study thermal transport in nanostructured and emerging materials.
• Build and optimise ultrafast laser‑based setups for time‑ and frequency‑domain thermoreflectance (TDTR) measurements.
• Conduct thermal mapping and imaging experiments to probe local heat transport and phonon dynamics.
• Perform finite element modeling (FEM) (e. g. , COMSOL Multiphysics) to simulate thermal transport processes and support experimental interpretation.
• Disseminate research results in publications, conferences, workshops, and project reports.
• Share responsibility for equipment maintenance, upgrades, IT services, and safety regulations.

Mandatory Qualifications

Education

• Ph
  D in Condensed Matter Physics, Materials Science, or a related field.

Experience and Technical Skills

• Postgraduate‑level research experience in semiconductor and nanoscale devices, emphasizing phononic crystals and nanoscale thermal transport.
• Hands‑on experience with ultrafast laser systems for time‑resolved optical measurements and material characterisation.
• Experience with finite element analysis.

Other Valued Skills

• Data analysis experience using Matlab, Python, or similar tools.
• Background in interfacial thermal transport.

Personal Skills

• Hands‑on approach with strong commitment to deadlines.
• Problem‑solving ability.
• Customer orientation.
• Independent and team‑player capabilities.
• Good communication skills.

Our Benefits

• Competitive salary.
• Tax benefits and diplomatic privileges.
• Private health insurance.
• Family allowances (according to family situation).
• Free nursery service at INL premises (subject to availability).
• Support for education fees of dependent children.
• Relocation support.
• 30 working days of annual leave.

How to Apply

The application must be in English and include the following mandatory documents:

1. Cover letter.
2. Curriculum vitae.
3. Academic and/or professional diplomas.
4. At least one reference letter.

Online application instructions:

1. Click the “Apply” button to start the application.
2. Complete all required sections of the online form.
3. Upload the mandatory documents in PDF format using the “Add portfolio” button in the Additional files section.

Important Note

Incomplete applications or missing mandatory documents, or providing inaccurate information, will not be considered.

How the Selection Process Works

1. A. Eligibility check – reviewed against mandatory requirements.
2. B. CV assessment – shortlisted candidates undergo interview.
3. C. Interview(s) – may be video, online, or onsite; may include a short presentation.
4. D. Nomination – selected candidate receives formal offer and contract details.

Application Feedback

We provide feedback to all applicants, regardless of the outcome.

Equal Opportunity and Non‑Discrimination Principle

INL follows a non‑discrimination and equal access principle. No candidate may be privileged, benefited, impaired, or deprived of any rights based on discriminatory issues.

About INL

The International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory – INL (http://www.inl. int) is the first and only intergovernmental organization worldwide focused entirely on nanoscience and nanotechnology. Founded under an international legal framework, INL performs interdisciplinary research, deploys, and communicates nanotechnology for societal benefit, aiming to be a leading global innovation hub.