The Department of Chemistry at the University of Copenhagen invites applications for a fully funded, 2-year Postdoctoral position in Theoretical Catalysis. This research position is funded under the prestigious ERC Synergy Grant project DEMI (Directed Evolution of Metastable Electrocatalyst Interfaces for Energy Conversion). The researcher will join the Theoretical Catalysis group and the Center for High Entropy Alloy Catalysis to advance atomic-scale modeling of electrocatalytic reactions and next-generation functional materials.
Position Overview
| Designation | Postdoctoral Researcher (Postdoc) |
|---|---|
| Research Area | Theoretical Catalysis, Computational Chemistry & Electrocatalysis |
| Host Institution | University of Copenhagen (Department of Chemistry) |
| Project Name | ERC-SyG DEMI (Directed Evolution of Metastable Electrocatalyst Interfaces for Energy Conversion) |
| Location | Copenhagen, Denmark |
| Employment Type | Full-time, 2-year fixed term |
| Starting Date | 1 February 2027 (or as soon as possible thereafter) |
| Application Deadline | 15 November 2026, 23:59 CET |
Designation
Postdoc in Theoretical Catalysis (Fixed-term academic research position for 2 years covered under the Danish collective agreement for academic staff).
Research Area
The primary focus of this appointment is Theoretical Catalysis and Computational Materials Science. Research activities encompass:
- Atomic-scale simulations of catalytic and electrocatalytic interfaces.
- Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations.
- Machine learning potentials and data-driven material discovery.
- Monte Carlo simulations and statistical mechanics applied to high-entropy materials.
- Collaborative research with experimental consortia from the University of Bern, Ruhr University Bochum, and Helmholtz-Institute Erlangen-Nürnberg.
Location
Department of Chemistry, Center for High Entropy Alloy Catalysis, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Eligibility and Qualifications
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered:
- Educational Background: A Ph.D. degree in Computational Chemistry, Theoretical Physics, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related physical modeling discipline.
- Technical Competence: Demonstrated experience with DFT simulations, physical modeling, and atomic-scale computational methods.
- Advantageous Skills: Prior experience in theoretical electrocatalysis, machine learning potential development, or simulation of high-entropy alloys is considered an asset.
- Language & Communication: Professional proficiency in written and spoken English, alongside strong interpersonal and collaborative abilities.
Job Description
The appointed Postdoctoral Fellow will be based within the Theoretical Catalysis group at the University of Copenhagen, headed by Professor Jan Rossmeisl. Key duties and responsibilities include:
- Conducting advanced computational research to understand electrocatalytic reactions and interfaces within the scope of the ERC-SyG DEMI project.
- Employing DFT-simulations, Monte Carlo methods, and machine learning potentials to analyze catalytic materials.
- Liaising and collaborating closely with experimental partner laboratories across Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland.
- Writing and publishing high-impact peer-reviewed scientific articles and presenting research findings at international conferences.
- Participating in academic duties, group seminars, and research activities at the Department of Chemistry.
Salary & Terms of Employment
The appointment is covered by the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff. Salary, pension, and working terms follow the national collective agreement between the Danish Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations (AC). Salary supplements can be negotiated depending on prior experience and qualifications.
How to Apply
Applications must be prepared in English and submitted electronically via the University of Copenhagen’s online recruitment portal. Please ensure the following documents are uploaded in PDF format:
- Cover Letter / Motivation: Detailing your research interests, qualifications, and suitability for the theoretical catalysis position.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Including academic history, research experience, and contact details of references.
- Diplomas & Transcripts: Verified copies of Master’s and Ph.D. degrees (or official documentation of imminent completion).
- Publication List: A full record of peer-reviewed publications and conference contributions.
Contact Information
For inquiries regarding the scientific project or position details, please contact:
Professor Jan Rossmeisl
Email: jan.rossmeisl@chem.ku.dk
Phone: +45 50 71 95 84
Last Date for Apply
The closing deadline for submitting applications is 15 November 2026, 23:59 CET.
Apply Link
Click Here to Apply Directly Online
