The Department of Interface Science (www.fhi.mpg.de/isc-department) headed by Prof. Beatriz Roldán Cuenya at the Fritz Haber Institute carries out cutting-edge research on advanced functional materials with applications in heterogeneous catalysis, energy conversion and electrochemistry. By combining unique synthesis methods, state-of-the art tools for experimental characterization and advanced approaches to data analysis, atomistic details of thermal catalysis and electrochemical reactions at gas/solid and liquid/solid interfaces are revealed. In particular, structure-reactivity correlations on nanostructured materials can be established, paving the way for the rational design of novel catalytic materials.

We are looking for a postdoctoral student for the Interfacial Ionics group (https://www.fhi.mpg.de/isc-dept/research-groups/interfacial-ionics) at the Department of Interface Science

1 Postdoctoral Position

Anion exchange membrane (AEM) and cation exchange membrane (CEM) electrolyzers are promising technologies to generate compressed green H2 at high current densities with a more compact cell design than traditional alkaline water electrolysis. However, so far, understanding about complex gas diffusion electrode - membrane interfaces is limited. Similarly, there exists a large knowledge gap about the impact of the interfacial membrane and ionomer environments on the performance of the HER and OER electrocatalysts and the influence of interfacial membrane electrolyte environments. The latter is not only relevant for AEM electrolyzers being operated with supporting alkaline electrolyte, but also for electrodialysis applications, e.g. for the electrochemical production of pure acid and base solutions from salt solutions.

The selected candidate will be joining the Interfacial Ionics Group with the goal to fundamentally improve our understanding of membrane-electrode and membrane-electrolyte interfaces in membrane-based electrolyzers and electrodialysis. To that end, you will use membrane electrode assemblies, electrodialysis cells and electrochemical scanning probe microscopy to study interfacial reactivity and stability on AEMs and CEMs.

The PostDoc position is initially for one year but can be extended up to three years.

REQUIREMENTS

• A PhD degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Physics or Physical Chemistry, preferably with a specialization in Electrochemistry
• A strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals for postdoc applicants
• Experience at performing complex electrochemistry experiments with a high drive to solve scientific and practical/ instrumental challenges independently
• Experience working with Multiphysics simulations (e.g. COMSOL) is preferred
• Excellent English skills
  

YOUR APPLICATION

Submit your application via our online application portal as soon as possible but latest by September 30, 2023 including the following documents:

• Curriculum vitae
• List of publications
• Names and email addresses of three references
  

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