Přehled
Host Researcher: Petr Vodička, Ph.D.
Head of Research Group: Dr. Vladimír Ždímal
Research keywords: Atmospheric aerosols, Vertical profile, Aerosol Mass Spectrometry, European background station
The Aerosol Chemistry and Physics research group focuses on a deeper understanding of the properties and behavior of atmospheric aerosols. A key aspect of this research is the study of the chemical composition of aerosol particles and their size distribution. These properties, for example, determine whether particles can act as cloud condensation nuclei and thus indirectly influence the climate. Significant support for this research is provided by the infrastructure of the National Atmospheric Observatory Košetice (NAOK), whose advanced instrumentation and a 250 m tall tower, enables long-term and detailed monitoring of atmospheric aerosol composition.
Possible postdoctoral project focus:
The postdoctoral researcher will use a high-resolution aerosol mass spectrometer (L-ToF-AMS, Aerodyne) for vertical measurements at the Central European NAOK station. Measurements will be conducted alternately at ground level and at a height of 230 m to capture detailed changes in aerosol chemical composition. The work will include not only technical operation and maintenance of the instrument, but primarily comprehensive analysis of the annual dataset obtained from these measurements, with emphasis on interpretation in the context of atmospheric processes.
The Institute of Chemical Process Fundamentals of the CAS is a public research institution that specializes in chemical and environmental engineering, and materials chemistry. In addition to systematic fundamental research, the institute also engages in applied research and strives to support the next generation of scientists through training programs for Ph.D. students. Thanks to its interdisciplinary approach, the institute promotes technological innovations, addresses environmental and societal challenges, and encourages collaboration between academia, industry and, society.
Who can apply?
- Must have been awarded or successfully defended their Ph.D. in chemistry by 9 September 2026
- No more than 8 years of full-time research experience since receiving PhD
- Must not have lived or worked in the Czech Republic for more than 12 months over the past 3 years
How to apply?
Interested applicants should send the following documents
- CV (maximum 5 pages)
- 1-page motivation, including why you chose your potential host
- 2-page research concept, briefly describing your research idea, approach, and current state of the art
The deadline for applying is 31 May 2026, send your application to the e-mail address: vodicka@icpf.cas.cz
