Summary
The Electrochemical Energy Systems group at the University of Freiburg is seeking a motivated PhD candidate for the CORAL-HC project. The research focuses on addressing environmental concerns tied to “forever chemicals” (PFAS) by developing viable, PFAS-free alternatives for heavy-duty fuel cells. The candidate will utilize atomic layer deposition (ALD) to design, fine-tune, and optimize platinum catalysts specifically for emerging hydrocarbon-based ionomers, paving the way for next-generation sustainable energy systems.
PhD-position in electrode/catalyst development for PFAS-free fuel cells (m/f/d) University of Freiburg, Germany
Designation
PhD Researcher (Part-time position, 80%)
Position Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Institution | University of Freiburg |
| Department | Electrochemical Energy Systems (IMTEK) |
| Reference Number | 00005123 |
| Duration | 3 years (Limited to June 30, 2029) |
| Salary/Pay Scale | Funded position (TV-L E13, 80%) |
| Ideal Starting Date | October/November 2026 (or ASAP) |
Research Area
Electrochemical Energy Systems, Materials Science, Thin-Film Deposition, and Sustainable Energy Technologies (PFAS-free Fuel Cells).
Location
Department of Microsystems Engineering – IMTEK Laboratory for MEMS Applications Georges-Koehler-Allee 103 79110 Freiburg, Germany
Eligibility/Qualification
- Education: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field.
- Technical Background: Strong background in electrochemistry, materials characterization, or catalysis. Experience with fuel cells is a plus.
- Experimental Skills: Hands-on laboratory experience, specifically with thin-film deposition techniques (e.g., ALD, CVD, sputtering) is highly desirable.
- Characterization Expertise: Familiarity with TEM/SEM, XRD, surface area analysis (BET), and electrochemical characterization methods (e.g., cyclic voltammetry, polarization curves).
- Language & Communication: Good written and spoken English; German language skills are a plus. Prior experience or strong interest in scientific writing and publishing is required.
Job Description
- Catalyst Development: Adapt and optimize atomic layer deposition (ALD) protocols to deposit platinum nanoparticles with controlled size and distribution on porous carbon supports.
- Electrode Fabrication: Fabricate and evaluate catalyst-ionomer composite electrodes, systematically varying ionomer-to-carbon ratios, and integrate them into fuel cell devices.
- Analysis: Conduct electrochemical characterizations (fuel cell measurements, cyclic voltammetry, ECSA) to assess performance.
- Research & Collaboration: Investigate the interplay between catalyst structure and hydrocarbon ionomer properties. Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary project partners to co-optimize designs.
- Documentation: Analyze data, translate insights into design guidelines, present progress at meetings, and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their application, including a letter of motivation, CV, transcript of records, and any other relevant supporting documents.
Applications can be submitted via the university’s online job portal or sent in written/electronic form to the IMTEK address listed above, ensuring you cite the reference number 00005123.
For inquiries, contact Carolin Klose at +49 761 203-73253 / 203-54062 or via email at carolin.klose@imtek.uni-freiburg.de.
Last Date for Apply
31. August 2026
