Polymer Institute SAS Slovak Academy of Sciences
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Open Positions

Open positions

👩‍🔬 Want to experience real science while still studying?

The Polymer Institute of the Slovak Academy of Sciences offers university and high school students a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in real scientific research.
You can work part-time as a student research assistant and contribute to key research topics of the Institute, from modern polymers to the materials of the future.

Gain valuable experience, develop your skills, and discover what it’s like to work in the world of science!
All you need is curiosity and the desire to learn something new.

👉 Join us and start your scientific journey today!

📩 Contact: uposekr@savba.sk

OPEN POSITION at the Department of Synthesis and Characterization of Polymers

Research Scientist

We are looking for a motivated researcher with expertise in polymer chemistry or analytical chemistry who is eager to develop their career in a leading international research environment. If you are passionate about scientific research and would like to contribute to projects with global impact, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

  • Independently ensure the efficient operation of GPC/SEC and HPLC systems, including advanced preparation of specialized samples, validation of analytical methods, and critical interpretation of complex analytical data.
  • Perform routine work with multi-detector GPC/SEC systems (triple detection: RI, differential viscometer, and MALS) as well as other detector types (UV-Vis, DAD, fluorescence, and ELSD) to comprehensively characterize polymer structure, conformation, and molecular weight distributions.
  • Develop and apply HPLC methods for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of low-molecular-weight compounds, derivatives, and additives in polymer systems.
  • Perform preventive maintenance, calibration, troubleshooting, and routine servicing of chromatographic instrumentation.
  • Actively contribute to the design, implementation, and methodological development of research and innovation activities in advanced polymer materials.
  • Participate in national and international research projects, communicate effectively with international collaborators, and contribute to the development of cross-border scientific partnerships.
  • Present research findings at international conferences, prepare technical reports, publish in peer-reviewed scientific journals, and participate in science outreach and public engagement activities throughout the year.

Candidate Profile

Education

  • PhD (third-level university degree) in Chemistry, preferably specializing in Analytical Chemistry, Polymer (Macromolecular) Chemistry, or Materials Chemistry.

Professional and Technical Skills

  • Extensive hands-on experience with GPC/SEC using triple detection, including routine operation of concentration, viscometer, and light scattering detectors.
  • Ability to independently interpret complex molecular characterization data, including absolute molecular weight determination, molecular weight distributions, macromolecular size, and polymer conformation in solution.
  • Practical experience with the operation, calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of GPC/SEC and HPLC systems.

Language Skills

  • English proficiency at B2/C1 level (written and spoken), with the ability to actively participate in scientific discussions, present research results, and independently prepare scientific publications and technical reports.

Personal Competencies

  • High level of accuracy, analytical thinking, and attention to detail, particularly in the interpretation of chromatographic data and identification of analytical anomalies.
  • Flexibility and a proactive approach to changing priorities within research projects.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, enabling effective collaboration within an international and multicultural research team.

Salary and Compensation

  • Salary will be determined in accordance with Slovak Act No. 553/2003 Coll. on the remuneration of certain employees performing work in the public interest, based on education and relevant professional experience.
  • Opportunity to receive a personal performance bonus and regular merit-based rewards reflecting research achievements, publication record, teaching and science outreach activities, and success in obtaining competitive research grants (VEGA, APVV, Horizon Europe).

What We Offer

  • Work in a modern, well-equipped laboratory with access to state-of-the-art technologies in advanced chromatography and polymer/materials research.
  • Opportunities for professional growth, implementation of your own scientific ideas, career development, and participation in international conferences and research stays.
  • Possibility of subsidized accommodation in Slovak Academy of Sciences residential facilities, subject to eligibility.
  • 45 days of annual leave.
  • A 37.5-hour working week with flexible working hours to support a healthy work-life balance.
  • Employer contributions to supplementary pension savings (Third Pillar).
  • Meal allowance exceeding the statutory minimum.
  • Support for sports and wellness activities through the MultiSport programme, as well as participation in institutional sports events and team-building activities.

Requested documents:

  1. Motivational letter
  2. Professional CV
  3. List of publications
  4. List of projects
  5. Recommendation letters

If you are interested in our offer, please send the required documents by August 3, 2026 by e-mail to: anita.eckstein@savba.sk or upolsekr@savba.sk

Expected start date: September 1, 2026

OPEN POSITION at the Department of Composite Materials

Post-doctoral position

Description:

We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow with a completed PhD in polymer chemistry/macromolecular chemistry/physics for the research, preparation and characterization of polymers, polymer composites and polymer surfaces/composites with practical experience of elastomer materials and biodegradable polymers for a period of 2 years, with the possibility of an extension for another 2 years.

The applicant should have experience with:

  • Preparation and modification of polymers and polymer blends
  • Mixing of polymers blends (mixing chamber, extrusion)
  • Degradation of polymers
  • Testing of mechanical and dynamic-mechanical properties
  • Determination of rheological properties
  • Determination of contact angle
  • Spectroscopic method (FTIR)

The position is suitable for applicants with education: PhD.

Language skills: English language – Intermediate (B2)

Experience in the field: 2 years

Personal prerequisites and skills:

  • work with a PC (MS Office, Outlook, Internet, OriginLab)
  • high work commitment,
  • flexibility,
  • assertiveness,
  • independent thinking,
  • consistency,
  • reliability
  • Ability to write scientific papers
  • Ability to apply scientific projects

We offer: 

  • A dynamic international research environment with opportunities for collaboration with leading institutions
  • Access tostate-of-the-art analytical techniques and modern laboratory facilities
  • Opportunities to attend conferences, workshops, and professional development programs
  • Salary according to Slovak law No. 553/2003, based on education and experience
  • Performance-based bonuses
  • Flexible working hours
  • Five extra vacation days beyond the legal minimum
  • Meal card/financial contribution for meals

Requested documents:

  1. Motivational letter
  2. Professional CV
  3. List of publications
  4. List of projects
  5. Recommendation letters

If you are interested in our offer, please send the required documents by July 16, 2026 by e-mail to: zdeno.spitalsky@savba.sk or upolsekr@savba.sk

Expected start date: September 1, 2026

Open Position: Postdoctoral Researcher (Postdoc)

We are looking for a motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our research team.
The position focuses on cutting-edge research in a dynamic and international environment.
We expect active participation in research projects, publication of scientific results, and collaboration with both domestic and international partners.

Open Position: Research and Technical Staff Member

We are seeking a research and technical staff member to support research activities within our team.
The job responsibilities include technical and experimental support of research, operation and maintenance of instruments, and collaboration with researchers.

We Offer

  • A dynamic international research environment with opportunities for collaboration with leading institutions
  • Access to state-of-the-art analytical techniques and modern laboratory facilities
  • Opportunities to attend conferences, workshops, and professional development programs
  • Salary according to Slovak law No. 553/2003, based on education and experience
  • Performance-based bonuses
  • Flexible working hours
  • Five extra vacation days beyond the legal minimum
  • Meal card/financial contribution for meals

Required Documents

  1. Cover Letter
  2. Curriculum Vitae
  3. List of Publications
  4. List of Projects
  5. Recommendation Letters

If you are interested in this position, please send the required documents by email to: upolsekr@savba.sk