PhD Position in Electrocatalytic NOx-to-Ammonia Conversion at Forschungszentrum Jülich, Germany

Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD Position in Electrocatalytic NOx-to-Ammonia Conversion at the Institute of Energy Technologies – Fundamentals of Electrochemistry (IET-1). This doctoral scholarship/research position offers an outstanding opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research toward sustainable energy transition, electrochemical synthesis, and environmental technology.

Overview Table

Designation

PhD Researcher / Doctoral Candidate (Electrocatalytic Conversion Systems)

Research Area

The research is situated within Electrochemistry, Electrocatalysis, Chemical Engineering, and Materials Science, focusing specifically on the experimental development and fundamental understanding of integrated electrochemical systems for the selective, energy-efficient conversion of nitrogen oxides (NOx) to ammonia (NH3).

Location

Jülich, Germany (Institute of Energy Technologies – Fundamentals of Electrochemistry, IET-1, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH). The project also includes research stays at the Multifunctional Materials Laboratory at ETH Zurich in Switzerland.

Scholarship & Position Description

As a PhD researcher at IET-1, you will contribute to advancing experimental research on novel electrochemical systems supporting the green transition. The doctoral project bridges catalyst synthesis, reaction optimization, and integrated full-cell device analysis.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute electrochemical studies to optimize NOx-to-NH3 conversion in half-cell and full-cell setups.
• Investigate key operating parameters including electrode potentials, current densities, mass transport, and electrolyte composition.
• Synthesize, characterize, and electrochemically evaluate advanced catalysts targeting high activity, selectivity, and stability.
• Analyze full-cell performance by examining the role of membrane properties, operating conditions, and reactant availability.
• Present scientific results at international conferences and publish research in peer-reviewed journals.
• Collaborate actively with interdisciplinary team members and international partners, including research visits to ETH Zurich.

Eligibility and Qualifications

Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered:

• Academic Background: A Master’s degree (or close to completion) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Electrochemistry, Materials Science, or a closely related discipline.
• Technical Skills: A solid background in electrochemistry, electrocatalysis, or experimental chemical laboratory research is highly desirable.
• Soft Skills: Strong motivation, curiosity, self-driven work ethic, and ability to thrive in an interdisciplinary, international team.
• Language Proficiency: Excellent command of written and spoken English (at least B2 level according to the CEFR).

Remuneration and Benefits

• Salary: Remuneration according to pay group 13 (75%) of the German collective agreement for the public service (TVöD-Bund).
• Bonus: Annual year-end bonus (75% of a monthly salary) and capital-forming benefits.
• Leave: 30 days of paid annual leave.
• Infrastructure: Access to world-class scientific facilities and state-of-the-art laboratory equipment.
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible working arrangements and support for international candidates through the International Advisory Service.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their complete application online through the Forschungszentrum Jülich career portal. Applications should include a curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, a cover letter detailing research interests and motivation, and relevant references/certificates.

Last Date for Apply

The application deadline for this position is September 22, 2026 (Reference Index: 2026D-0732).

Apply Link

To submit your application or learn more details, visit the official application portal:

Apply Online – PhD Position at Forschungszentrum Jülich