The Chemical Modeling Group at the Graz University of Technology (TU Graz), Austria, led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Aleksandar Kondinski, invites ambitious PhD students and postdoctoral researchers to apply for a research stay through the prestigious Ernst Mach Grant – Worldwide scholarship program.
Our group’s research focuses on developing state-of-the-art methods that combine computational modeling, experimental synthesis, and laboratory automation to accelerate the discovery of new materials and chemical processes.
💡 Examples of Project Topics
As a visiting researcher, you will have the opportunity to work on one of the following innovative projects:
- Synthesis and Characterization with a Feedback Loop: Computational design of novel molecules/materials, followed by their experimental synthesis and characterization to validate and improve theoretical models.
- Machine Learning in Chemistry: Creating novel Machine Learning (ML) models to predict material properties and molecular reactivity.
- Materials Design: Computational modeling and design of novel materials for sustainable technologies (e.g., catalysts for CO₂, solar cells, batteries).
- Digitalization for Smart Laboratories: Design and development of robotic platforms for automated synthesis and analysis, as well as the development of ‘digital twins’ for laboratory processes.
🎓 Your Benefits
- Interdisciplinary Skills: You will gain experience in one or more of the following areas: computational chemistry, Python/AI, robotics and automation, or experimental chemical synthesis.
- Publications: Opportunity to co-author high-impact scientific papers.
- Collaboration: You will become part of a dynamic research environment and expand your professional network.
- Experience: During your stay, you will live and work in Graz – a vibrant, international student city in the heart of Europe.
🇦🇹 About the Program: Ernst Mach Grant – Worldwide
- Program: Ernst Mach Grant – Worldwide (OeAD)
- Application Deadline: February 1, 2026
- Duration of Stay: 4 to 9 months
- Target Group: Current PhD students or Postdoctoral researchers under the age of 35.
- Funding: A monthly scholarship covers living expenses, travel costs, and insurance.
🎯 Who Can Apply?
The call is open to creative and motivated researchers from all over the world (except Austria) with a background in chemistry, chemical engineering, computer science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or related disciplines.
Important for PhD students: Full support from your home university mentor is required. Mentors are welcome to get involved as collaborators in the research.
📩 Interested?
Before submitting the official application to the OeAD, please express your interest first. Send your CV and a brief letter of motivation (describing your research interests and relevant skills) to the following email address: kondinski at tugraz.at
Selected candidates will be contacted for an online interview and will receive full support and guidance in preparing the official grant application.