Scientist in Catalysis Engineering

Scientist in Catalysis Engineering

The Advanced Catalysis Engineering group , led by Prof. Javier Pérez-Ramírez, studies challenging reactions with a direct technological impact on society towards a sustainable chemical industry. Our current targets include efficient small-molecule activation as renewable feedstocks, waste-free manufacture of specialty chemicals, and plastic waste recycling. Efforts in these areas center on the design of heterogeneous catalysts and reactor concepts. We strive to establish structure-function relationships at relevant length and time scales combining precision materials synthesis with advanced characterization and catalytic evaluation under realistic process conditions.

We are searching for an ambitious Scientist to lead the expansion of our research interests.

You will lead efforts towards establishing and developing new frontline research areas complementing our current expertise under the direct supervision of Prof. Javier Pérez-Ramírez. Your duties will be:

• Leading the execution of a frontier research line.
• Daily supervision of students and postdocs as required.
• Writing research applications towards the acquisition of funding.
• Establishment and management of academic and industrial collaborations.
• Communication of the scientific outcome in presentations, journals, conferences.
• Supporting organizational aspects of the group.

Depending on the profile of the successful candidate, teaching at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels (up to 25%) is possible. The contract has a duration of 2 years to be extended upon mutual agreement. English is the working language.

You have a PhD in chemistry or chemical engineering obtained within the last 5 years, post-doctoral experience, and developed frontier research. Your scientific creativity is reflected by a publication record in top-ranked journals, where innovative concepts stand out. You can develop a world-class program in one of the suggested areas:

• High-pressure conversions, e.g., CO2 valorization
• Fundamental approaches to catalyst scale up
• Catalytic depolymerization of plastic waste

Or any other research line that complements the group activities.

Core personal requirements for this position are a proactive mindset with a high level of creativity and initiative, excellent communication skills and fluency in spoken and written English, a strong team player with leadership skills, willingness to take on responsibilities. Experience in supervising students and designing and writing funding proposals is highly valued.

We offer world-class resources to develop scientific leadership in an ambitious and dynamic international team, flexible working conditions, and good social benefits in line with the standards of ETH Zurich. The start date will be the earliest possible for the candidate.

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• Motivation letter.
• Brief research plan (up to 2 pages) describing the context, aims, and strategy to develop a research area of your choice.
• CV
• The names and contact details of 2 referees who may be consulted at an advanced stage in the selection process.

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. Those applications not fulfilling core requirements will not be considered further.

Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Javier Pérez-Ramírez, [email protected] (no applications).

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.