Postdoctoral fellowship: Deep-UV Raman spectroscopy and analytics

Overview

We are recruiting a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to lead the first implementation of Deep-UV Raman spectroscopy for real-time polymer identification. This project addresses a critical gap: no established Deep-UV spectral libraries or real-time interpretation models for plastics currently exist. The successful candidate will therefore act as a first mover, building foundational datasets and AI models that enable material traceability and circularity in plastics.

The role focuses on developing and curating Deep-UV spectral databases, designing AI-based classification models, and further advancing the measurement instrument in close collaboration with our industrial partner, Veridis Technologies.

An ideal candidate has experience in vibrational spectroscopy and spectral processing. Expertise in deep learning frameworks and methods such as 1D-CNNs, transformers, or chemometrics for spectral analysis is highly valued, though applicants with strong backgrounds in physics, physical chemistry, or analytical chemistry are also encouraged to apply.

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will perform experimental work with a Deep-UV Raman spectroscopy setup, measuring representative plastic waste samples and optimising acquisition protocols to generate high-quality spectral data. You will build and curate a Deep-UV Raman spectral database and develop chemo metric and AI models for real-time classification, additive detection, and inline interpretation. The work includes validating algorithms on a lab-scale sorting setup and linking spectroscopic outputs to recyclability scoring and Digital Product Passport data flows.

• Build a comprehensive DUV Raman spectral library for post-consumer plastics, incl. rare and complex polymers
• Design and validate deep learning algorithms for real-time classification at high-throughput
• Develop synthetic spectral datasets that mimic experimentally challenging materials
• Develop spectral unmixing methods to identify additives, contaminants, and critical raw materials
• Work on the DUV Raman system in close collaboration with industrial stakeholders (Veridis)

If the project is successful, Veridis intends to offer a follow up to continue the development.