PhD Position - Electrocatalytic NOx-to-Ammonia Conversion

At the Institute of Energy Technologies – Fundamentals of Electrochemistry (IET-1), we conduct research on highly topical issues relating to the energy transition and structural change. For example, we are working on the battery of the future and researching novel battery concepts. Another exciting project we are working on is how to turn the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide (CO₂) from a climate killer into a raw material of the future. The aim of our research and development work is to develop cost-effective batteries, fuel cells and electrolysers with improved energy and power density, longer service life and maximum safety! Hydrogen production based on renewable energy sources using high- and low-temperature electrolysis is becoming increasingly important for us. Find out more about our mission and forward-looking projects here: https://go.fzj.de/iet-1

• Vertragsart: Vollzeit

Angebot

• Team & Environment: You will work in a motivated team with an international and interdisciplinary focus at one of the largest research institutions in Europe
• Research & Infrastructure: You will have access to excellent scientific and technical facilities for your work. As part of the research program, you will undertake research stays at the Multifunctional Materials Laboratory at ETH Zurich, contributing to catalyst synthesis
• Networking & Exchange: You will participate in (international) conferences and project meetings and actively build your scientific network
• Work-life balance: Flexible working arrangements (including remote working) are generally possible upon agreement and in line with upcoming tasks and (on-site) appointments
• Leave: You will receive 30 days of annual leave
• Fair remuneration: Depending on your qualifications and assigned responsibilities, you will be classified according to pay group 13 (75%) of the TVöD-Bund. In addition to the basic salary, there is an additional year-end bonus under the collective pay agreement amounting to 75% of a monthly salary, as well as capital-forming benefits. All information about the TVöD-Bund collective agreement can be found on the BMI website (pay scale table on page 74 of the PDF download)
• Fixed-term: The position is for a fixed term of 3 years
• Support for international employees: Our International Advisory Service makes it easier for international employees to get started In addition to exciting tasks and a collegial working environment, we offer you much more: https://go.fzj.de/benefits

Aufgaben

As a PhD researcher, you will contribute to advancing the experimental development and fundamental understanding of an integrated electrochemical system for the energy-efficient and selective conversion of NOx to NH3 reaction. Your work ranges from catalyst synthesis to studies of integrated electrochemical systems and will include the following tasks:

• Develop and conduct electrochemical studies to understand and optimize NOx-to-NH3 conversion, with a focus on key operating parameters such as electrode potential, current density, electrolyte composition, and mass transport in half-cell configurations.
• Investigate and optimize integrated electrochemical systems, evaluating the impact of electrolyte and membrane properties, operating conditions, and reactant availability on full-cell performance
• Contribute to the development of NOx reduction catalysts through synthesis, characterization, and electrochemical evaluation, with a focus on activity, selectivity, and stability
• Presenting your results at international conferences and publishing your findings in leading scientific journals
• Collaborating with researchers within the group and with international partners

Profil

• You should hold (or be close to completing) a master’s degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, electrochemistry, materials science or a closely related discipline
• A background in electrochemistry, electrocatalysis, or experimental chemical research is desirable
• We are looking for a highly motivated, curious, and self-driven researcher who enjoys tackling fundamental scientific questions and thrives in an interdisciplinary and collaborative environment
• Very good command of written and spoken English with extensive vocabulary is required (at least B2 level according to the CEFR)

Über uns

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us. The following links provide further information on diversity and equal opportunities: https://go.fzj.de/equality and on specific support options for women: https://go.fzj.de/womens-job-journey