Research Opportunities

The BS4S programme will support 20 postdoctoral researchers in developing their own interdisciplinary research projects with strong scientific and societal impact.

Candidates are free to choose their research direction within the broad scientific scope of IChF, which spans chemistry, biology, and physics. Projects should align with the Institute’s Core Areas of Excellence (CoEs):

• CoE 1: Advanced Biomaterials & Technologies for Health
  (pharmaceutical sciences, biotechnology, bioengineering, polymer chemistry, surface science, nanotechnology, materials science)

• CoE 2: Photonics and Light-Driven Processes
  (photonics, quantum optics, spectroscopy, crystallography, nanotechnology, biophotonics, biomedical engineering, analytical chemistry)

• CoE 3: Catalysis & Materials for Sustainable Transformations
  (catalysis, materials science, surface and physical chemistry, process engineering, environmental chemistry),

These areas are in line with the strategic priorities of Horizon Europe, the European Green Deal, and national/regional Smart Specialisation Strategies.

Each fellow will be supported by a mentor from IChF and a co-mentor from an international partner organisation. Co-mentors—ERC/EIC grantees from EU institutions or globally recognised scientists from outside Europe—will provide top-level expertise, foster scientific ambition, and promote innovation. Their involvement will strengthen the fellow’s research and professional development, with a strong emphasis on real-world applications and interdisciplinary collaboration.