PhD position for STM Studies on the Dynamics of Oxide-Supported Cluster Catalysts

22.07.2021, Wissenschaftliches Personal

The group for Functional Nanomaterials at the Department of Chemistry of the Technical University of Munich investigates fundamental dynamics of functional surfaces such as small supported metal clusters. For our ERC-funded project on real space observations of dynamic changes in catalysts under gas atmospheres we offer a fully funded PhD Position, available immediately and limited to three years. For full consideration, please send your CV, letter of motivation (max. 1 page) and two letters of reference to [email protected]

A heterogeneous catalyst – often oxide-supported metal clusters – is an inherently dynamic system: its struc-ture and chemical composition change continuously during a reaction. Indeed, the high dynamic structural flux-ionality of clusters is often what makes them such excellent catalysts, but dynamics can also decrease durabil-ity. This project aims at tackling the fundamental mechanisms guiding cluster stability and dynamics. We want to answer fundamental questions like: In which temperature and pressure range are supported clusters stable? Does the stability of clusters vary with their size and shape? What about oxide supports – do they restructure as well? How does this change their stoichiometry? Can we improve the sintering-resistance of clusters by tuning the support? Once sintered, how do we re-disperse clusters? And can we influence dynamic structural fluxionali-ty by cluster-support interaction?
As the successful candidate, you will perform scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) measurements at variable temperatures and under near-ambient pressures (NAP) using a new state-of-the-art NAP-STM. You will prepare single crystal (e.g. TiO2(110)) or thin film (e.g. Al2O3) supports and generate size-selected metal clusters using a cluster source. Furthermore, you will learn about video rate STM techniques, experiments under NAP-conditions and in-depth data analysis. You will construct a new pulsed-valve temperature programmed reaction setup and integrate it for tests of catalytic activity. In addition, you will have the opportunity to perform NAP X-ray photoe-lectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurements at synchrotrons around the world (e.g. Berkeley, Lund, Trieste), which will provide complementary information about the chemical changes occurring in the oxide support and clusters catalysts.
Prospective candidates have a degree in chemistry, physics or a related field and are highly motivated to work on sophisticated physicochemical experimental setups. They show a strong interest in method development and solving technical challenges and bring along good communication skills in English. The successful candidate will further show a willingness to learn about new techniques and scientific fields and contribute their own ideas to the project. We are looking for a team player who collaborates closely with other team members while also working independently on their own project. Experience in scanning probe microscopy, ultrahigh vacuum tech-nology, surface chemistry, synchrotron techniques and basic programming skills (Matlab, Python, LabVIEW, …) are advantageous.

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Kontakt: [email protected]

https://www.department.ch.tum.de/nanomaterials/