Overview

Host Researcher: Petr Stanovský, Ph.D.

Head of Research Group: Petr Stanovský, Ph.D.

 

Research keywords: Membrane gas separation; CO₂ capture; organic compounds separation; functional polymeric membranes; molecular dynamics modelling

 

The Research Group of Membrane Separations focuses on the development, characterization, and application of membrane-based separation processes for gaseous and liquid mixtures. The group has long-standing expertise in the separation of gas mixtures, including the purification of biogas and industrial waste gases, with particular attention to the removal of sour gases such as CO₂ and SO₂. Our research includes polymer membranes with functional modifications, such as supported ionic liquids, hierarchically porous particles, polymers of intrinsic microporosity. The group also investigates liquid separations. We apply molecular dynamics modeling to understand transport, selectivity, and molecular interactions in complex separation environments.

 

Possible postdoctoral project focus:

The proposed project will explore advanced functional membranes for challenging gas or liquid separations, with a focus on the relationship between membrane structure, transport properties, and separation performance. Possible research directions include CO₂, SO₂, or other harsh gases separation using functionalized particle- or liquid-based composite membranes, membrane-based processes for the separation of organic compounds or enantiomers, and machine learning-enriched molecular dynamics modeling to predict a suitable membrane for selected species. The project should, at best, combine advanced experimental techniques with modeling approaches and will offer the candidate flexibility to refine existing methodologies or introduce new concepts.

 

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.

 

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Have been awarded or have successfully defended a PhD in chemical engineering, materials science, membrane science, physical chemistry, environmental engineering, or a related field by 9 September 2026
• Have no more than 8 years of full-time research experience after receiving their PhD
• Not have lived or worked in the Czech Republic for more than 12 months during the past 3 years

 

Application Documents

Interested candidates should submit:

• CV, maximum 5 pages
• One-page motivation letter, including why they chose the host research group
• Two-page research concept briefly describing the research idea, proposed approach, and current state of the art

Application Deadline

The deadline for applications is 15th of June 2026.

Applications should be sent to: stanovsky@icpf.cas.cz