Organisation/Company: Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies
Department: The BioRobotics Institute
Research Field: Engineering » Materials engineering, Engineering » Electronic engineering, Engineering » Microengineering, Engineering » Mechanical engineering, Engineering » Systems engineering, Chemistry » Physical chemistry, Physics » Surface physics, Physics » Biophysics, Technology » Materials technology, Technology » Nanotechnology, Technology » Environmental technology, Technology » Biotechnology, Biological sciences » Botany
Researcher Profile: Recognised Researcher (R2)
Positions: Postdoc Positions
Country: Italy
Application Deadline: 28 Feb 2025 - 13:00 (Europe/Rome)
Type of Contract: To be defined
Job Status: Full-time
Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Horizon Europe - ERC
Reference Number: 101124721
Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? Yes
Offer Description
Project Overview
These positions are offered within the framework of the ERC-funded project EpiC (Grant Agreement No. 101124721), which aims to advance cutting-edge research at the intersection of soft robotics, energy harvesting, materials chemistry, and plant biology. By integrating sustainable design principles with novel materials and hybrid biological-robotic systems, EpiC seeks to develop next-generation technologies that address urgent challenges in energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, and agricultural innovation.
We invite applications for Postdoctoral Researchers and PhD Candidates in the following research areas:
* Sustainable Soft Robotics
o Design and fabrication of soft robotic platforms using environmentally friendly materials
o Microfluidics and bio-inspired or bio-hybrid actuation, sensing, and control strategies
o Integration of soft robotics with living organisms for ecological monitoring and sustainable manufacturing
* Energy Harvesting
o Development of novel materials and systems for capturing and converting ambient energy
o Investigation of self-powered sensors and devices for long-term sustainability
o Exploration of scalable, sustainable, and effective energy harvesting solutions for environmental monitoring and soft robotics
* Plant-Hybrid Systems
o Merging plant biology with engineered systems for adaptive, responsive technologies
o Studying plant growth, communication, and stress responses in controlled environments
o Co-designing plant-robot interfaces to improve resource efficiency and ecosystem health
Responsibilities
* Conduct independent research aligned with the EpiC project’s objectives
* Collaborate across disciplines, integrating approaches from robotics, materials science, chemistry, and plant biology
* Publish findings in high-impact journals and present at international conferences
* Mentor and guide junior researchers (for Postdoctoral roles)
* Contribute to lab operations and maintain rigorous safety and ethical standards
Qualifications
Postdoctoral Candidates should hold (or be near completion of) a PhD in one or more of the following areas (or a closely related field):
* Robotics, Mechatronics, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering
* Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Surface Chemistry
PhD Candidates should hold (or expect to obtain) a Master’s degree in a related discipline. Strong motivation and a demonstrated ability to work in an interdisciplinary environment are essential.
Preferred Skills:
* Previous research experience in relevant techniques (e.g., soft materials fabrication, energy conversion, chemical surface modification, plant physiology)
* Proficiency in experimental design, data analysis, and/or computational modeling
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
* Team-oriented mindset and problem-solving capabilities
What We Offer
* Fully funded positions (competitive salary in accordance with institutional and EU guidelines)
* Access to state-of-the-art facilities in robotics, materials characterization, high-resolution electrical characterization, and plant sciences
* Interdisciplinary research environment with opportunities for collaboration across multiple fields
* Professional development through international conferences, workshops, and training events
* Supportive mentoring to foster career growth and innovation
Application Procedure
How to Apply:
Please submit your expression of interest with the following documents in PDF format to the contact email listed below, using the subject line “Application: EpiC Postdoc/PhD – [Research Area]”:
* Cover Letter detailing your motivation, relevant experience, and specific interest in the EpiC project research area(s)
* Curriculum Vitae including your educational background, publications, and any relevant research or technical experience
* Contact details of at least two references (for Postdoc applicants, please provide referees who can attest to your postdoctoral readiness; for PhD applicants, academic advisors or supervisors are preferred)
Application Review:
* Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Early submission is encouraged.
* Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an online or in-person interview.
Where to apply
E-mail: fabian.meder@santannapisa.it
Requirements
Research Field: All
Education Level: PhD or equivalent
Education Level: Master Degree or equivalent
Languages: ENGLISH Level Excellent
Additional Information
Details of the contract, including remuneration and duration, will be determined based on the researcher’s experience and institutional requirements.
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