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👩🔬 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 for Biomaterials Research
Open call/position for researchers in the field of polymer chemistry for controlled synthesis and characterization of biomedical polymers.
Research Field
- Chemistry » Macromolecular chemistry
- Chemistry » Organic chemistry
- Chemistry » Physical chemistry
- Engineering » Chemical engineering
- Pharmaceutics
- Biomaterial research
Researcher Profile
- Early career researchers until 5 years after their PhD
- Country
- Slovakia
Application Deadline: October 16, 2026 – 23:59 (Europe/Bratislava)
Type of Contract: Temporary, for 12 months
Job Status: Full-time
Hours Per Week: 37.5
Offer Starting Date: December 1, 2026 or on demand
Offer Description
The position is aimed for a researcher, in early stages of the scientific career or a Post-Doc, with an interest to pursue scientific goals in the area of polymer chemistry and material chemistry by means of polymer synthesis, physicochemical characterization of polymeric materials, and development of advanced drug delivery systems.
The main tasks involve:
1. Design and synthesis of polymers
- Synthesis of organic compounds, including monomers, initiators, or catalysts.
- Living and controlled polymerization techniques, including living cationic polymerization, controlled radical polymerizations.
- Post-polymerization reactions.
- Fabrication of different polymeric materials (nanoparticles, conjugates, coatings, hydrogels, composites).
2. Characterization of polymeric materials
- Determination of chemical structure, including NMR, FTIR, and GPC.
- Solution properties and aggregation behavior, including DLS, Langmuir-Blodgett test.
- Spectroscopic and chromatographic methods (UV-VIS, fluorescence, HPLC)
- Maintain detailed records of material preparation conditions for reproducibility.
3. Drug delivery systems
- Perform various methods for polymer self-assembly (dialysis method, thin film method, nanoprecipitation)
- Characterize the size, charge, and colloidal stability of polymer nanoparticles
- Evaluate basic pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters of prepared drug delivery systems.
4. Biological evaluation of polymers and biomaterials (optional)
- Assess in vitro cytotoxicity study using cell lines according to ISO-10993 norm.
- In vitro visualization methods, staining (CLSM)
- Evaluate antibacterial activity under physiologically relevant conditions (serum proteins, pH changes, presence of organic load).
5. Data analysis and reporting
- Analyze chemical, physical, and biological data using statistical methods and appropriate software.
- Generate clear, well-structured reports summarizing results, trends, and interpretation.
- Prepare visuals (graphs, micrographs, charts) for internal meetings and publications.
6. Collaboration and interdisciplinary communication
- Work in an interdisciplinary environment.
- Provide feedback for material optimization.
- Participate in project meetings and contribute to experimental planning.
7. Compliance, safety, and documentation
- Follow safety and biosafety rules.
- Maintain precise lab notebooks and provide/follow SOPs for all used methods.
- Ensure all testing follows relevant ISO norms and research ethics guidelines.
8. Contribution to research dissemination
- Assist in writing scientific papers, patents, and grant proposals.
- Present results at internal seminars or external scientific events.
- Follow all internal rules of Polymer Institute SAS defined in the contract and other relevant documents.
- PI SAS provides an opportunity to develop your scientific career in a dynamic and modern research environment. The topic is connected to advanced polymer synthesis of polymers, nanoparticles, and other polymeric materials with novel properties for drug or mRNA delivery.
- PI SAS provides an opportunity to prolong the contacts based on the evaluation in front of the Scientific Board.
Requirements
Research Field
- Chemistry » Macromolecular chemistry
- Chemistry » Organic chemistry
- Chemistry » Physical chemistry
- Engineering » Chemical engineering
- Pharmaceutics
- Biomaterial research
Education Level: PhD or equivalent
Skills/Qualifications
1. Scientific and Technical Skills
- Deep knowledge in polymer chemistry, organic synthesis, and physical chemistry.
- The expertise in 2-oxazoline chemistry is strongly welcome.
- Hands-on experience with synthetic methods as well as characterization techniques.
- Experience with polymeric or biomaterial systems, connection to interfacial processes, and optionally in vitro assessment of biocompatibility and pharmacokinetics.
2. Laboratory and Analytical Skills
- Proficiency in planning and executing experiments independently.
- Accurate data recording, data processing, and statistical analysis.
- Experience using laboratory analytical instruments (e.g., DLS, HPLC, Langmuir-Blodgett, spectroscopic methods etc.).
- Ability to work in inert conditions (Glowbox, Schlenck lines)
- Ability to interpret NMR results and correlate them with material properties.
Specific Requirements
The applicants are invited to submit their applications before October 16th, 2026 (including), 2026. The applications must include a Curriculum Vitae with a full list of publications, and documents of a completed PhD. Applications should be sent via email to upolsekr@savba.sk . Only complete submissions are considered.
Languages
- ENGLISH
- SLOVAK
Level
- Excellent
Research Field
- Chemistry » Polymer Chemistry
Years of Research Experience
- 0 – 5
Additional Information
Benefits
- Possibility of gaining a permanent position in the team in the future.
- Flexible working time
- International collaborations
- Contribution for lunch vouchers
- For Slovak applicants, contribution to the Third pillar of the Slovak pension system
Eligibility criteria
- PhD degree (in a field of macromolecular chemistry, organic chemistry, chemical engineering, pharmacy, or related fields)
- Experience with polymer synthesis and characterization
- Computer skills (data analysis, statistical analysis, graphs preparation)
- Publication history in Q1/Q2 journals
- Ability to work within an interdisciplinary team and join collaborations
- English literacy and skills
Selection process
The applications will be considered individually, and based on the submitted documents, the promising applicants – a maximum of 5 candidates – will be invited for the internal preselection. All candidates will be informed about the selection for the interview before October 23, 2026.
Additional comments
Data protection: All application documents submitted in connection with this call will be securely stored, used solely for the preselection process, and will not be disclosed to any third party. Personal data will be retained for 6 months and then erased.
Required Documents
- Cover Letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- List of Publications
- List of Projects
- Recommendation Letters
If you are interested in this position, please send the required documents by email to: upolsekr@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:
- Motivational letter
- Professional CV
- List of publications
- List of projects
- 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: 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
- Cover Letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- List of Publications
- List of Projects
- Recommendation Letters
If you are interested in this position, please send the required documents by email to: upolsekr@savba.sk