Institut Quimic Sarria (IQS) – Universitat Ramon Llull
Organisation/Company Institut Quimic Sarria (IQS) – Universitat Ramon Llull Department Analytical and Applied Chemistry Research Field Chemistry » Analytical chemistry Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions Master Positions Country Spain Application Deadline 31 Aug 2025 - 23:59 (Europe/Madrid) Type of Contract Permanent Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 38,5 Offer Starting Date 1 Sep 2025 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No
Offer Description
Project Overview:
Are you passionate about environmental chemistry and instrumental analysis? Join our research team to study the occurrence of cyanotoxins in Catalan reservoirs and their potential impact on drinking water production. This project aims to develop both targeted (LC-MS/MS) and non-targeted (LC-QTOF and LC-Orbitrap) methods for analyzing cyanotoxins in various aqueous matrices. We will assess cyanotoxin levels in Catalan reservoirs and evaluate the efficiency of drinking water treatment processes in eliminating these toxins.
Background:
The global occurrence of cyanobacterial Harmful Algal Blooms (cHABs) has been rising due to increasing global temperatures and freshwater eutrophication, largely driven by extensive fertilizer use in agriculture. These blooms produce diverse cyanotoxins that adversely affect water quality. Events like the severe drought in Catalunya in 2024, which led to record low reservoir levels, can further exacerbate cHABs in warmer, nutrient-rich conditions.
Research Focus:
* Method Development: Create targeted and non-targeted analytical methods for cyanotoxins.
* Monitoring: Use grab and passive sampling to monitor cyanotoxin levels in reservoirs, with a focus on warmer months (June-September).
* Predictive Modeling: Utilize environmental data and machine learning to predict cHAB occurrences.
* Treatment Efficiency: Study the effectiveness of drinking water treatment steps (flocculation, coagulation, filtration, oxidation) in removing cyanotoxins using real algal blooms and lab cultured cyanobacteria.
* Toxicity Assessment: Determine the toxicity of algal blooms and individual cyanotoxins using in-vivo models (zebrafish and Daphnia magna).
* Education: BSc and MSc in Analytical Chemistry or related fields.
* Attributes: Ability to work independently and collaboratively, creativity, excellent communication skills, and fluency in English.
* Academic Record: Strong academic performance is highly valued.
Specific Requirements
Hands-on experience in chromatography and/or mass spectrometry is an asset.
Languages ENGLISH Level Good
Research Field Chemistry » Analytical chemistry Years of Research Experience 1 - 4
Additional Information
* Duration: 3 years of competitive funding.
* Team: Work with a dynamic, multidisciplinary team of chemists, chemical engineers, and toxicologists.
* Support: Receive training in most advanced LC-MS techniques, close supervision, attendance at international congresses, and opportunities for creativity.
Eligibility criteria
To apply, please upload the following documents:
* Motivation letter explaining why you would be a good fit for the position and team
* Academic records
Additional comments
We are an equal opportunity employer. We promote equality and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions or any other characteristic protected by law. We strongly welcome applications from female candidates as they are currently under-represented at this level in this field of knowledge in our School.
We also promote scientific and technological knowledge, business transformation and societal progress. At IQS we look for professionals committed to both these values.
Number of offers available 1 Company/Institute Institut Quimic Sarria (IQS) – Universitat Ramon Llull Country Spain State/Province Barcelona City Barcelona Postal Code 08017 Street Via Augusta, 390 Geofield
#J-18808-Ljbffr