A postdoctoral researcher position is available at the Department of Chemistry at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), under the supervision of Professor Kasper S. Pedersen. The position is available now and is part of the research project Optically Actuated Valence Change in van der Waals Crystals financed by the Novo Nordisk Foundation.
The project "Optically Actuated Valence Change in van der Waals Crystals" aims to develop a novel method to control the electronic and magnetic properties of van der Waals crystals (vdWCs) through molecular alloying and light. These vdWCs, composed of stacked two-dimensional (2D) metal-organic materials, are promising for advanced electronic and quantum devices due to their unique ability to modulate charge, light, and heat at the atomic level.
Responsibilities and qualifications
The successful candidate will work on the synthesis and investigation of molecularly engineered materials. Therefore, the candidate is expected to have a strong track-record in coordination chemistry and crystallography. The project combines synthetic coordination and solid-state chemistry with advanced structural characterization and physical property measurements. In particular, the candidate will investigate structure–property relationships using techniques including three-dimensional electron diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray crystallography, complemented by measurements of magnetic and electronic properties.
The research will be carried out in an interdisciplinary environment spanning synthetic chemistry, crystallography, magnetism, and quantum materials science. The group has access to state-of-the-art electron diffraction instrumentation and X-ray crystallography facilities, physical property characterization techniques, and the use of synchrotron radiation sources is an integral part of the project.
Active dissemination of research results through publications in leading scientific journals and presentations at international conferences is an integral part of the position.
As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent).
The candidate may apply prior to obtaining your PhD degree but cannot start before having obtained it.
We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.
Salary and terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.
The period of employment is 10 months.
You can read more about career paths at DTU here
Further information
Further information may be obtained from Professor Kasper S. Pedersen, email: kastp@kemi.dtu.dk
You can read more about DTU Chemistry at https://www.kemi.dtu.dk/english
If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark
Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 14 July 2026 (23:59 Danish time)
Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file The file must include:
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.
The Department of Chemistry performs research, educational activities, and innovation at a high international level within e.g. energy, catalysis, and materials. The overall aim is to contribute with new knowledge about basic scientific problems and carry out research with vast application perspectives - to the benefit of both society and companies.
DTU – For the benefit of society since 1829
DTU is one of Europe's leading elite technical universities. Through research and education at an international top level, we create solutions to the major societal challenges of our time and help secure Europe's global leadership in sustainable technological development. Since Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU almost 200 years ago, our mission has remained the same: We develop and create value through the natural and technical sciences for the benefit of society. DTU has 13,800 students, 1,600 PhD students, and 6,500 employees. We work in an international environment and have an inclusive, stimulating, and informal work culture. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland and collaborates with the best universities around the world.
