Postdoctoral position photo-electrochemical CO2 conversion

We are looking for a candidate to fill an open postdoctoral position in our group for a collaborative project with the start-up DENS on photo-electrochemical CO2 conversion. This project is funded by the “Toeslag voor Topconsortia voor Kennis en Innovatie (TKI’s) van het ministerie van Economische Zaken en Klimaat”. The position is fully-funded for 12 months with the start date as soon as possible and at the latest March 1, 2024.

What are you going to do

You will develop and optimize a homogeneous catalyst for photo-electrochemical conversion of CO2 into formic acid. The catalyst will be integrated with DENS’ Hydrozine generator. While the research part of the project will be mostly be carried out at the University of Amsterdam, you will have close contact with the DENS team.

Your tasks:

• Synthesis and characterization of the catalyst. Mechanistic studies and catalyst performance tests. Integration with DENS’ reactor;
• Bridging fundamental research performed at University of Amsterdam and implementation in the process at DENS (Helmond);
• Supervision of PhD students in the team working on the project; reporting the results; communicating the results via peer-reviewed publications and at conferences.

What do we require

A recent PhD degree in homogeneous catalysis, with a strong focus on mechanistic investigation. Knowledge in photo- or electrochemical small molecule conversion will be an advantage. 

Your experience and profile:

• Excellent laboratory skills and a proven track record in photo-electrochemical small molecule conversion and/or material characterization;
• Good communication skills in oral and written English;
• Takes initiative and has good time management skills;
• Interest in collaborating with industrial partner, as well as students and colleagues within the institute

Our offer

A temporary contract for 38 hours per week, preferably starting as soon as possible, but latest on March 1, 2024, for the duration of 12 months. We offer support with writing applications for a personal PostDoc grant.

The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between € 3,226.- and € 5,090.- (scale 10). This does not include 8% holiday allowance and 8,3% year-end allowance. The UFO profile Researcher 4 is applicable. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities is applicable.

Besides the salary and a vibrant and challenging environment at Science Park we offer you multiple fringe benefits:

• 232 holiday hours per year (based on fulltime) and extra holidays between Christmas and 1 January;
• Multiple courses to follow from our Teaching and Learning Centre;
• Multiple courses on topics such as leadership for academic staff;
• Multiple courses on topics such as time management, handling stress and an online learning platform with 100+ different courses;
• 7 weeks birth leave (partner leave) with 100% salary;
• Partly paid parental leave;
• The possibility to set up a workplace at home;
• A pension at ABP for which UvA pays two third part of the contribution;
• The possibility to follow courses to learn Dutch;

Are you curious to read more about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits, take a look here .

About us

The Homogeneous, Supramolecular and Bio-Inspired Catalysis Groups main research objective is the development of novel catalytic processes driven by our knowledge of the relationship between structure and performance of the catalyst. Research projects span from fundamental to applied catalysis, the latter in collaboration with industry and via spin-off companies. We are part of the UvA Research Priority area in “Sustainable Chemistry”. 

The startup company DENS has developed an efficient catalyst that is able to decompose formic acid, and has grown from about 20 to 70 employees in the past year. Their expertise in bringing this technology from fundamental observations to market-ready products is of great value to guide this project towards long-term applications, and facilities such as pilot-scale test reactors are available for the consortium. Furthermore, DENS’ technique for separation of CO2 from gas streams is a key contributor to the circular nature of the proposed project.

The Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS) is one of eight institutes of the University of Amsterdam (UvA) Faculty of Science. HIMS performs internationally recognized chemistry and molecular research, curiosity driven as well as application driven. This is done in close cooperation with the chemical, flavor & food, medical and high-tech industries. Research is organized into four themes: Analytical Chemistry , Computational Chemistry , Synthesis & Catalysis and Molecular Photonics .

The University of Amsterdam is the Netherlands' largest university, offering the widest range of academic programmes. At the UvA, 30,000 students, 6,000 staff members and 3,000 PhD candidates study and work in a diverse range of fields, connected by a culture of curiosity.

The Faculty of Science has a student body of around 8,000, as well as 1,800 members of staff working in education, research or support services. Researchers and students at the Faculty of Science are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works, be it elementary particles, the birth of the universe or the functioning of the brain. 

To work at the University of Amsterdam is to work in a discerning, independent, creative, innovative and international climate characterized by an open atmosphere and a genuine engagement with the city of Amsterdam and society. Here you can read more about working at the University of Amsterdam .

Questions

Do you have any questions or do you require additional information? Please contact:
•    Dr Sonja Pullen , assistant professor

Job application

The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer. We prioritise diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. We value a spirit of enquiry and perseverance, provide the space to keep asking questions, and promote a culture of curiosity and creativity.

Do you recognize yourself in the job profile? Then we look forward to receiving your application by January 15, 2024 at latest. You may apply online by using the link below.

Applications in .pdf should include:

• A curriculum vitae including the list of publications (please put in the months and not just years when referring to your education and work experience;
• A short overview (max 2 pages A4) of specific past research contributions;
• A letter of motivation (max 2 pages A4);
• A reference (email, phone number) to the direct supervisor in the previous academic position.

We will recruit until the position is filled and close the position when a suitable candidate is found.

No agencies please

The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer. We prioritize diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. We value a spirit of enquiry and perseverance, provide the space to keep asking questions, and promote a culture of curiosity and creativity.

No agencies please