Summary
Leiden University is offering a 4-year PhD position as part of the MSCA Doctoral Networks program, e-ChemIn. The successful candidate will investigate the molecular properties of electrode-electrolyte interfaces using advanced operando X-ray spectroscopy techniques (XPS and soft XAS) to optimize the activity, selectivity, and stability of electrocatalytic systems.
PhD position: Operando X-ray spectroscopy on electrocatalytic interfaces (1.0 FTE) Leiden University, Netherlands
Designation
PhD Candidate
Key Details Overview
| Detail | Information |
| Institution | Universiteit Leiden |
| Location | Leiden, Netherlands |
| Job Requisition ID | 16767 |
| Working Hours | 38 hours/week (1.0 FTE) |
| Salary | €3,059 to €3,881 gross per month |
| Contract Duration | 1 year initially (extendable for 3 more years) |
Research Area
Electrochemistry, Electrocatalysis, Surface Science, and X-ray Spectroscopy (operando XPS and soft XAS).
Location
Leiden, Netherlands.
Note: The project includes two 4-month international secondments at the University of Trieste (Italy) and the University of Liverpool (UK).
Eligibility/Qualification
- Academic Background: Master’s degree in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, or a related discipline.
- MSCA Mobility Rule: Must not have resided or carried out main activities (work, studies, etc.) in the Netherlands for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately preceding the recruitment date.
- Doctoral Status: Must not already hold a doctoral degree.
- Skills: Strong interest in spectroscopy/electrochemistry, excellent English proficiency, and good technical experimental skills. Analytical thinking, creativity, and independence are highly valued.
Job Description
You will study how changing catalyst structures (e.g., crystallinity) and electrolyte compositions (pH, ions) impact active electrode-electrolyte interfaces under catalytic conditions. Your research will help build design principles for systems dealing with H2O oxidation/reduction and NO3- reduction. You will collaborate closely with international partners for complementary electron microscopy and surface X-ray diffraction (SXRD) studies.
How to Apply
Candidates must submit their application online through the Leiden University recruitment system via the “Apply now” button on the vacancy page. Ensure you quote the vacancy number and upload the following documents:
- CV (including a detailed description of your residence and main activities over the last 3 years).
- A motivation letter.
- Copies of academic degrees, including course/grade transcripts.
- Contact details (names, affiliations, and emails) of at least two references.
Last Date for Apply
20 September 2026 (Project starting date is April 1, 2027, at the latest, though an earlier start is preferred).
