Postdoctoral Researcher in Ald Protective Coatings for Low Earth Orbit Applications

Fixed term contract | Belvaux | 24 Months

Are you passionate about research? So are we! Come and join us

The Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) is a Research and Technology Organization (RTO) active in the fields of materials, environment and IT. By transforming scientific knowledge into technologies, smart data and tools, LIST empowers citizens in their choices, public authorities in their decisions and businesses in their strategies. 

Do you want to know more about LIST? Check our website.   

How will you contribute?

• Design and develop ALD thin film coatings for atomic oxygen protection
• Deposit and optimize conformal coatings on satellite-relevant composite and polymer substrates
• Study the impact of deposition parameters on coating performance (adhesion, barrier properties, durability)
• Perform physicochemical and structural characterization of coatings
• Evaluate coating performance under relevant environmental or degradation conditions
• Analyse experimental results and establish structure–property relationships
• Contribute to publications, reports, and project dissemination
• Collaborate with project partners in a defence and space R&D framework 

Is Your profile described below? Are you our future colleague? Apply now!

EU or NATO citizenship 

Education

PhD in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, Surface Engineering, Nanotechnology, or a closely related field 

Experience and skills 

• Strong background in thin films, surface modification, or functional coatings
• Knowledge of vacuum-based deposition techniques and materials characterization is highly desirable
• Hands-on research experience in thin film deposition and surface engineering
• Experience with atomic layer deposition (ALD) is strongly preferred
• Experience in coating development for advanced materials, polymers, composites, or barrier applications is considered an asset
• Previous experience in space-related materials, environmental durability, or protective coatings is a plus 

Language skills

• Fluency in English, both oral and written. 

Your LIST benefits

• An organization with a passion for impact and strong RDI partnerships in Luxembourg and Europe that works on responsible and independent research projects
• Sustainable by design, empowering our belief that we play an essential role in paving the way to a green society
• Innovative infrastructures and exceptional labs occupying more than 5,000 square metres, including innovations in all that we do
• An environment encouraging curiosity, innovation and entrepreneurship in all areas
• Personalized learning programme to foster our staff’s soft and technical skills
• Multicultural and international work environment with more than 50 nationalities represented in our workforce
• Diverse and inclusive work environment empowering our people to fulfil their personal and professional ambitions
• Gender-friendly environment with multiple actions to attract, develop and retain women in science
• 32 days’ paid annual leave, 11 public holidays, 13-month salary, statutory health insurance
• Flexible working hours, home working policy and access to Digital lunch vouchers 

Apply online

Your application must include:

• A motivation letter oriented towards the position and detailing your experience
• A scientific CV with contact details
• List of publications (and patents, if applicable)
• Contact details of 2 references 

Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by email will not be considered. 

Application procedure and conditions

We kindly request applicants to provide their nationality for statistical purposes only, as part of our commitment to promoting diversity and ensuring equal opportunities in our workforce. This information will be kept confidential and will not be used for any discriminatory purposes.

LIST is dedicated to maintaining an inclusive work environment and is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to attracting, hiring, and retaining a diverse workforce. All applicants will be considered for employment without discrimination based on national origin, race, colour, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, religion, age, or disability.

Applications will be continuously reviewed until the position is filled. An assessment committee will thoroughly evaluate applications, adhering to guidelines designed to ensure equal opportunities. The primary criteria for selection will be the alignment of the applicant's existing skills and expertise with the requirements mentioned above.

In accordance with Article L 252-1 of the Luxembourg Labour Code and the requirements of European Defence Agency funding, this position is open exclusively to nationals of the European Union Member States. While we maintain a commitment to equal opportunities and non-discrimination, this restriction applies due to the defence and strategic nature of this EDA-funded research initiative. For the purposes of the position and in accordance with applicable legislation, the successful candidate may be requested to provide a recent criminal record certificate and we may run a background check.