A hosting offer for the MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships 2023 call is available at Soft & Active Materials Laboratory, directed by Asst. Prof. Dr. Erkan Senses at Koç University in Istanbul, Turkey. The PI’s research aims to develop novel bio-based nanocomposite hydrogels, and further functionalize them to alleviate the impacts of drought on soil physical structure and plant development. The postdoctoral project will reveal detailed structure-property-performance relationships of the smart bio-nanocomposites that will help plants to adapt to changing climatic conditions by providing prolonged and on-demand release of water and nutrients.

The successful candidate must have a strong motivation to conduct high-quality and impactful research that aligns with the sustainable development goals. Due to the interdisciplinary nature of the research, applicants with Ph.D. degrees in polymer science, plant biology and science, applied physics, chemistry/chemical engineering, materials science, or a related field are strongly encouraged to apply. The work requires modeling and experimentation; therefore, candidates with previous experience in hydrogel characterization, polymer synthesis and characterization, rheological methods, elemental analysis, light and electron microscopy, plant growth, and soil characterization will be given priority.

Applicants should send their resumes to Dr. Erkan Senses, esenses@ku.edu.tr, and give (online) a 30-minute presentation describing their Ph.D. research experience and future career plan.