Overview

Job description:

The J. Heyrovský Institute of Physical Chemistry offers a position in the scientific team of the Department of Space Chemistry and Technology, focusing on instrumentation and the development of new experimental methods for space applications. The successful candidate (m/f/d) will work on relevant scientific activities, including the design, simulation, and construction of experiments. He/she will be responsible for acquiring, evaluating, and interpreting experimental data, as well as publishing and presenting the results. The job will also involve the preparation and application of grants, as well as acquisition of third-party funding.

The specific work will focus on the design and construction of new prototypes and concepts of mass spectrometers and the related software for in-situ analysis of extraterrestrial material and, at the same time, new types of analyzers for laboratory support of space missions. The candidate will work on ERA-Chair specific projects and on related (own) projects, that enable to qualify for an independent career.

 General requirements:

•    Minimum 5 years after PhD or equivalent in physics, chemistry, chemical engineering

•    Postdoctoral experience in recognized international laboratories

•    Good communication skills in both written and spoken English, basic knowledge of Czech is desirable, but not a requirement.

•    Work with (high school) students, popularization of project results and science for a wider audience

Specific requirements:

•    Large experience and proven expertise in the development of novel approaches in (high resolution) mass spectrometry, e.g., quadrupole, TOF, Orbitrap, charge detection MS

•    Extensive experience with high vacuum equipment, liquid/droplet generation and handling in vakuum, laser assisted mass spectrometry

•    experience in CAD design, programming, and software development for efficient data processing and device control

•    Simulation of ion trajectories in ion optics (SIMION)

•    Design and implementation of electrical circuits

•    Design and implementation of RF traps and transport multipoles

•    experience in the application of novel methods for space dust particle analysis

Expected start:

January 1, 2026, or as agreed

Position duration:

3 years initially – with a possibility for an extention after qualification (after evaluation)

The application must include:

A cover and motivation letter, CV, copies of diplomas, a brief summary of previous research activities and an outline of future ideas in the field of space chemistry and technology, a complete list of publications, and at least two letters of reference, which should be send by email directly to the contact below.

Please send your application (as one pdf-document) by email to: bernd.abel@jh-inst.cas.cz, with cc: jan.zabka@jh-inst.cas.cz  and recruitment@jh-inst.cas.cz. Please include “SC2025_32” in the subject line of your email.

Application deadline: December 20, 2025