Université Libre de Bruxelles - Free University of Brussels - (ULB) is a major academic institution with international recognition for scientific achievements, see
https://www.ulb.be/The group of Prof. Yves Geerts is active in the design, synthesis, processing and characterization of advanced molecular materials with unprecedented properties, see
http://chimpoly.ulb.be/CHISUB is an ambitious collaborative research project that span over 4 years (2022-2025) and that puts together 6 research groups from Belgium, The Netherlands, and Austria. CHISUB features a multidisciplinary approach, towards crystallization mechanisms of molecules, which uses chiral symmetry breaking as local probe of ordering phenomena and as a tool for enantiomeric separation. Crystallization often starts on surfaces of rigid substrates with the formation of 2D self-assembled molecular layers and then extends to bulk phases. CHISUB intends to design, synthesize, and characterize a library of molecular systems tailored to break chiral symmetry at different time- and length-scales. These systems will be studied by scanning probe microscopy at 2D and by electron microscopy and diffraction techniques when extending to 3D. Chiral symmetry breaking towards specific handedness will be directed by external stimuli, such as a combination of electric and magnetic fields, spin polarization, and even rotation of molecular machines. Theoretical and experimental studies will be carried out in synergy to explore ordering phenomena and chiral selectivity processes from first principles and reach a fundamental understanding beyond specific systems.
A talented highly motivated young chemist or physicist with a Ph.D. in the field of crystal growth of organic molecules is actively searched. The candidate must have a sound knowledge of crystal structures, and diffraction methods. He/she must be hard at work, easy-going, rigorous, and have strong laboratory skills. He/she must be fluent in English and be able to write high-quality publications.
The successful applicant is expected to develop an innovative research program in close collaboration with other nodes of the CHISUB network. The position is for an initial duration of one year.
To apply, candidates must send to Prof. Yves Geerts,
[email protected], a letter explaining his/her motivations, a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, and the name and email address of three reference persons.