PhD Position in Automated Spectroscopy of Photoactive Molecules and Thin Films
Develop a self-driving laboratory platform to accelerate discovery in photochemistry and porous materials research.
Best for:Best for recent chemistry, materials science, or chemical engineering graduates with hands-on experience in spectroscopy, fluidics, and instrumentation, eager to work at the intersection of automation and photochemistry.
Overview
This PhD position at the University of Amsterdam focuses on advancing automated spectroscopy for photoactive molecules and thin films. The project aims to create a self-driving laboratory platform that integrates spectroscopy, AI-driven optimization, and flow technology to study photochemical processes and porous architectures. The successful candidate will design and build experimental setups, develop automated workflows, and apply AI methods to analyze multidimensional datasets. The work spans physical chemistry, spectroscopy, photochemistry, and instrumentation, with a strong emphasis on hands-on experimental research and interdisciplinary collaboration.
What you'll do
- Design and construct flow setups using 3D printing, pumps, and computer-controlled valves, integrating them with spectroscopic tools.
- Develop and validate reproducible automated workflows for quantitative photophysical measurements, including optical spectra and quantum yields.
- Implement AI-driven methods to optimize experimental parameters and translate data into mechanistic insights.
- Build a controlled flow system for in-situ ATR-UV–Vis spectroscopy, including polarization analysis, to monitor thin-film formation and evolution.
- Document and transfer experimental workflows, analyze multidimensional datasets, and publish results collaboratively with the supervisory team.
- Assist in teaching undergraduate and master’s students, contributing to mentorship and scientific communication.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in chemical engineering, physical chemistry, materials science, or a closely related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency sufficient for academic research and collaboration
Instruction: English
- Hands-on experience with building experimental setups, particularly involving spectroscopy
- Ability to prepare and handle molecular solutions and photosensitive samples accurately and reproducibly
- Familiarity with optics, fluidics, detectors, and related laboratory hardware
- Basic proficiency in Python, LabVIEW, or MATLAB for instrument control and data processing
- Strong initiative, passion for science, and ability to document experiments carefully
- Experience with chemical sample handling and safety protocols
- No specific nationality restrictions
- Open to international applicants
- No age restrictions mentioned
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-31 · open until filled
Submit a motivation letter (max 1 page), CV with detailed education/work experience, and contact details for one academic reference via the university’s application portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
- Motivation letter (max 1 page)
- CV with detailed education and work experience (including months)
- List of publications
- Contact details of at least one academic reference
Contact
Dr. Tomáš Šolomek· Supervisor
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