The Director of the Centre for Functional and Surface Functionalized Glass

of Alexander Dubček University of Trenčín

in accordance with Law 131/2002 on Higher Education, Law 552/2003 on Public Service Employment, and the university’s selection principles for university teachers, researchers, and senior officials, announces a recruitment process for the following position:

Postdoctoral Research Associate
Department of Functional Materials, Centre for Functional and Surface Functionalized Glass

Research Topic: Innovating Next-Generation Photocatalytic & Electrocatalytic Materials

 Required Qualifications and Experience:

• PhD in Chemical Engineering / Environmental & Materials Science, with research focused on advanced multi‑component materials for energy and environmental applications.
• Specialization in electrocatalysis, photocatalysis, hydrogen technologies, and nanomaterials engineering, including MOFs, MXenes, LDHs, multi‑component catalysts, and heterogeneous photocatalysts.
• Extensive experience in synthesis and processing of advanced materials.
• Strong background in structural and morphological characterization, including: XRD, GI‑SAXS, SEM/EDX, TEM, BET, TGA, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, and UV‑Vis DRS.
• Hands‑on expertise in optical and spectroscopy methods.
• Experience with electrochemical characterization, including LSV, CV, EIS, and Tafel analysis.
• Strong command of written and spoken English, with experience in scientific writing, manuscript preparation, and editorial communication.
• Demonstrated ability in hands‑on problem‑solving, experimental troubleshooting, and optimization of laboratory workflows.
• Collaborative team player, experienced in interdisciplinary research environments and international scientific projects.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct fundamental and applied research on functional materials for photo‑ and electrocatalysis, with emphasis on hydrogen production, environmental remediation, and advanced nanomaterials.
• Develop and optimize synthesis routes for multi‑component catalytic systems.
• Actively pursue external research funding, including national, EU, and international grants relevant to hydrogen technologies, catalysis, and sustainable materials.
• Collaborate with industrial partners on applied research topics such as hydrogen generation, catalytic materials, and environmental technologies.
• Demonstrate strong independence in planning and executing experiments, while contributing effectively to interdisciplinary team projects.
• Publish high‑quality scientific papers, prepare research reports, and present results at international conferences and scientific meetings.
• Prepare, write, and manage research proposals, including conceptual development, experimental planning, and technical documentation.
• Analyze complex scientific problems, propose innovative solutions, and perform detailed interpretation of experimental data.
• Maintain excellent written and oral communication skills, supporting collaboration within the research group and with external partners.
• Exhibit strong organizational and time‑management abilities, ensuring timely completion of research tasks, milestones, and deliverables.

 What We Offer:

• A stimulating international and interdisciplinary research environment
• Access to advanced laboratories and research infrastructure
• Opportunities for collaboration across Europe and beyond
• Career development through project leadership, networking, and publishing

Interested and qualified candidates should submit (in English):

• Professional CV
• A copy of PhD certificate or confirmation of successful completion of the PhD thesis prior to appointment
• A list of publications and research projects
• A cover letter describing background specific experience related to the research topic specified above and capabilities pertaining to research activities
• Copies of three recent first author publications
• The name address and e mail address of at least one reference
• Shortlisted candidates may be asked to submit a brief research plan.

The application, along with the required documents, should be sent via email to marcela.brodova@tnuni.sk by 27 May 2026. Applications received after this deadline will not be accepted.

Trenčín, 15 May 2026

Dušan Galusek Prof., DSc,

Director of FunGlass Centre