Research Technician

Oxide Nanophysics Group
Nanobioelectronics and Biosensors Group

Description of Group/Project:

Some plastic polymers are known to be able to generate a piezoelectric or flexoelectric voltage when they are stretched or bent. We have teamed with a textile company that produces fabrics based on such polymers, and the present project aims to establish whether these fabrics are maintain the piezoelectric and flexoelectric properties of the parent material. The expected outcome of the project will be a proof-of-concept wearable technology capable of extracting a useful amount of electricity from human motion.

To this end, we have pooled the facilities and expertise of three groups that have come together for this project: the Oxide Nanophysics group, led by Gustau Catalan, specializes on the physics and measurement of flexoelectricity and piezoelectricity; the Nanobiosensors group, led by Arben Merkoçi, has the relevant expertise and tools for deposition of electrically-conducting electrodes on textile substrates using industrially scalable techniques, and an industrial partner that can mass-produce the fabrics that will be tested. We will provide technical guidance and support to help the applicant learn all the techniques involved and maximize the chances of a successful outcome.

Main Tasks and responsibilities:

The main tasks will be (i) exploring different ways to add flexible and non-shorting electrodes to the PVDF fabric and (ii) testing the electrical, mechanical and elecectromechanical properties of the textile energy-harvesting device. He or she will also write a final report describing the results of the project.

Summary of conditions:

• Both full time and part time options are available.
• Contract Length: 6 months.
• Salary will depend on qualifications and demonstrated experience.
• Salary according to the cost of living in Barcelona.
• Support to the relocation issues.
• Life Insurance.

Estimated Incorporation date: October 2017

How to apply:
All applications must be made via the ICN2 website found by following the apply link and include the following:

• A cover letter.
• A full CV including contact details.
• 2 Reference letters or referee contacts.

Deadline for applications: 25th of September, 2017.

Equal opportunities:

ICN2 is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion of people with disabilities.