Are you ready to design the next generation of materials for green hydrogen, advanced batteries, and solar energy without ever picking up a test tube?

At the Quantum Theory of Nanomaterials (QTNano) group, based at the São Carlos Institute of Chemistry (IQSC), University of São Paulo, we replace traditional wet labs with high-performance computing, quantum mechanics, molecular dynamcis, and machine learning. As a core part of the Center for Innovation on New Energies (CINE) and backed by long-term funding from FAPESP, CNPq, and Shell Petroleum Brazil, we offer a world-class environment for minds driven by curiosity and impact.

We are looking for talented, motivated individuals to join our international team. Discover where you fit in our ecosystem:

🚀 Opportunities Available Across All Career Stages

1. Undergraduate Students: Scientific Initiation
• The Launchpad: Start your research journey by building a rock-solid foundation in computational science.
• What you will do: Learn to handle large datasets, write efficient Python scripts, and get your first taste of Density Functional Theory (DFT).
• Why QTNano: You will work side-by-side with experienced graduate students and postdocs, ensuring you are never left to figure things out alone.

2. Master’s Students
• The Accelerator: Transition from absorbing textbook knowledge to creating original scientific insights.
• What you will do: Focus on modeling metallic surfaces, nanoparticles, or semiconductors, mastering data extraction pipelines along the way.
• Why QTNano: We emphasize early publication in high-impact journals and help you develop the rigorous project management skills necessary for a top-tier international career.

3. Ph.D. Candidates
• The Catalyst: Drive independent, high-impact research aimed at solving real-world energy crises.
• What you will do: Investigate complex atomistic mechanisms, utilize advanced machine learning descriptors, and lead specific project branches within our CINE/Shell partnership.
• Why QTNano: You will present your work at international conferences and build a global network that sets you up for leadership positions in academia or industry.

4. Postdoctoral Researchers
• The Innovator: Take on high-level scientific and administrative leadership in a well-funded, ambitious environment.
• What you will do: Manage large-scale computational workflows, mentor younger labmembers, and collaborate directly with leading experimental groups in Brazil and abroad.
• Why QTNano: We offer access to premium FAPESP and institutional fellowships, a centralized high-performance computing architecture, and the freedom to pioneer new theoretical methodologies.

5. Visiting Researchers & Faculty
• The Global Exchange: Bring your expertise to a diverse, multicultural hub in the scientific capital of Latin America.
• What you will do: Engage in bilateral collaborative projects, deliver specialized seminars, or explore structural synergies with our distributed e-QTNano framework.
• Why QTNano: Benefit from our state-of-the-art office infrastructure (including dedicated 25- desk dual-monitor workspaces), dedicated HPC support analyst, and a vibrant city boasting the highest concentration of Ph.D.s per capita in the region.

The QTNano Environment: What We Offer

A Truly International Workspace: Our team includes researchers from Brazil, Mexico, India, Pakistan, and Iran. To ensure everyone grows and is prepared for the global stage, all group meetings, seminars, and daily scientific discussions are conducted in English.
• Cutting-Edge Infrastructure: Every group member is equipped with a high-performance workspace featuring dual-monitor setups optimized for Python scripting and data visualization.
• Centralized Computing Power: Skip the hardware headaches. Our team is supported by centralized high-performance clusters and dedicated technical staff to keep your simulations running smoothly.
• Industry Integration: Our direct ties to Shell Petróleo Brasil mean your fundamental science is always connected to practical, cost-effective energy solutions.
• A Culture of Resilience: We don't fear computational setbacks; we treat them as critical data points. We foster an environment of open discussion, collaboration, and mutual support.

Ready to Take Action?

Our future is shaped by the concrete actions we take today. If you are ready to develop competitive technical skills, write high-quality science, and contribute to a constructive, forward-thinking team, we want to hear from you.

How to Apply:

Our recruitment process is continuous and ongoing throughout the year. We do not open specific, seasonal application calls—whenever exceptional talent aligns with our vision, we welcome the opportunity to expand our team.

To express your interest, simply get in contact directly with Prof. Juarez L. F. Da Silva by emailing your CV and a brief statement detailing your research background and interests. You can also explore our work further at www.qtnano.iqsc.usp.br. Let’s build the future of materials design together.