Postdoctoral Researcher / Postdoctoral Fellow (MSCA-COFUND CoCirculation3, TÜBİTAK 2236-A)

About the Position

FALCON LAB (Smart Materials and Manufacturing Technologies Laboratory) at the Bahçeşehir University is offering a fully funded PhD position, which presents a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of materials science, physics, and engineering, shaping the future for sustainable energy and automotive applications. The position is funded under the MSCA-COFUND scheme CoCirculation3.

Dr. Ozan Akdoğan is an internationally recognized expert in nanotechnology, advanced magnetic materials, and nanomanufacturing, currently leading the FALCON LAB (Smart Materials and Manufacturing Technologies Laboratory). His research focuses on cutting-edge areas, including the development of rare-earth-free and recycled permanent magnets for sustainable energy and automotive applications, as well as the creation of magneto-responsive nanorobots and micro-swimmers with significant potential in targeted drug delivery and biomedical engineering. Dr. Akdoğan’s impressive background includes a Ph.D. from the University of Delaware, USA, and a subsequent postdoctoral position at the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), demonstrating a strong foundation in global research excellence and collaborative, multidisciplinary projects. Postdocs joining his lab will benefit from this rich, international perspective and the opportunity to contribute to pioneering, highly relevant technological solutions.

The research environment under Dr. Akdoğan is highly dynamic. The lab is equipped with the latest technology for the fabrication and characterization of thin films, nanoparticles, and bulk materials, utilizing techniques such as sputtering, E-beam evaporation, chemical synthesis, and advanced magnetic characterization (VSM, SQUID, PPMS). A core strength of the lab is its focus on additive manufacturing (3D printing) of functional magnetic materials and the integration of these nanostructures into MEMS/NEMS devices and bio-applications. Postdocs are encouraged to take ownership of challenging projects, supported by a track record of successful funding from agencies like TÜBİTAK, and opportunities for international collaboration, making this a prime destination for ambitious researchers seeking to translate fundamental materials research into impactful, real-world applications.

The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Ozan Akdoğan ([email protected]) at Bahçeşehir University, benefiting from a dynamic academic environment and strong industry collaboration. This interdisciplinary PhD is ideal for candidates with a background in Material Science, Physics, Chemistry, or a related field. Experience in hard magnetic materials is preferred.

In collaboration with NANOTerial Technology CO, this project aims to develop high-performance permanent magnets derived entirely from recycled critical raw materials, addressing the urgent need for sustainable alternatives in the European magnet supply chain. By integrating advanced separation, purification, and reprocessing technologies, the project contributes directly to the EU Green Deal priorities of a Clean and Circular Economy and Clean, Accessible, and Secure Energy Supply. It also supports Sustainable Smart Transport and Green Energy sectors by reducing dependence on imported rare earth elements while minimizing environmental impact and industrial waste. Through innovative recycling and material recovery methods, this research fosters Climate Resilience, Environmental Protection, and a truly Circular Materials Economy aligned with Europe’s green transition goals.

The application deadline is 10th November 2025. Early applications are encouraged, as the position may be filled before the deadline. Please contact Dr. Ozan Akdoğan with your CV and academic transcripts.

Eligibility

Researchers holding a PhD (regardless of nationality), who have not resided in Türkiye for more than 12 months in the last 36 months. Projects are expected to be related to the TÜBİTAK’s RDI Topics for compliance with the EU Green Deal and Adaptation to Climate Change.

Funding

Monthly allowances: • Salary (Gross): €3,980 • Family allowance: €600 • Research, training & networking: €1,000 • Entrepreneurship support: €250 • Travel allowance: €50 • Institution share: €130 (paid to the host institution)

Before you apply We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor ([email protected]) for this project before you apply. Please include details of your current level of study, academic background, and any relevant experience, and include a paragraph about your motivation to study this PhD project.

How to apply Apply online through: [email protected] and [email protected]

Your application will not be processed without all the required documents submitted at the time of application, and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Application documents:

· Final Transcript and certificates of all awarded university-level qualifications

· Interim Transcript of any university-level qualifications in progress

· CV (The CV should include the standard academic and research record using the template available at the cocirculation3.tubitak.gov.tr (maximum five pages are recommended)

· Supporting statement: A one or two-page statement outlining your motivation to pursue postdoc research and why you want to undertake postdoc research at Bahçeşehir University, including any relevant research or work experience, the key findings of your previous research experience, and techniques and skills you’ve developed. (This is mandatory for all applicants, and the application will be put on hold without it.)

· Applicants are expected to present a draft proposal in 4 different sections: 1) Excellence, 2) Impact, 3) Quality and Efficiency of the Implementation, and 4) ethical aspects (if any)

The maximum total length for sections 1 to 3 is 10 pages, plus 1 page for the Start Page, 1 for the Table of Contents

· Contact details for two referees (please make sure that the contact email you provide is an official university/work email address, as we may need to verify the reference) · English Language certificate (if applicable)

If you have any questions about making an application, please contact our admissions team by emailing [email protected] and [email protected] Equality, diversity, and inclusion are fundamental to the success of Bahçeşehir University, and are at the heart of all our activities. We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity, and quality, as well as societal and economic impact.

We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, and transgender status.

Funding Notes

The position is launched under TÜBİTAK’s 2236-A Program call, for an international fellowship for experienced researchers, supported under the EU’s MSCA-COFUND scheme CoCirculation3. To connect Türkiye’s research ecosystem with global talent, this call enables you to conduct research for 24 months at an academic or industrial host institution in Türkiye, with the option to extend this period by up to 12 months at a non-academic institution.