PhD position – Theory and modelling of electrochemical transport and reaction phenomena in nanoporous materials

Your Job:

Nanoporous materials are key components in electrochemical hydrogen technologies, most importantly in the form of electrocatalytic layers (ECLs) of fuel cells and electrolysers. The nanoporous structure steers the transport of ions, water, and gas molecules, and it maximizes the active interfacial area between electrode and electrolyte phases. A deep understanding of the complex interplay between electrokinetic transport, surface charging, and interfacial reactivity under nanoconfinement is essential for the optimal design of next-generation ECL materials. As a PhD candidate at Theory and Computation of Energy Materials, you will be part of a new German–Canadian research collaboration elucidating how to selectively control electrochemical transport and reaction phenomena in catalysed nanoporous membranes. You will develop theoretical models and employ computational methods to describe the coupling between ionic nanofluidics, electric double-layer charging, and interfacial reactivity in electrolyte-filled nanochannels. The work will be performed in vivid exchange with project partners to establish an innovative platform integrating efforts from theory, simulation, and experiment.

Your Job:

• Development and computational implementation of theoretical models for the description of electrokinetic transport and electrochemical reaction phenomena in nanoporous membranes
  
• Contribution to elucidate the principles for control of selective transport and reaction phenomena in nanoporous electrocatalytic materials
  
• Collaboration with partner groups in a German–Canadian research project

Your Profile:

• M.Sc. degree in physics, physical chemistry, chemical engineering, or related field
  
• Knowledge and competences in physical theory and modelling
  
• Experience and interest in computer programming
  
• Basic knowledge of electrochemistry and electrochemical energy technologies
  
• Intrinsic motivation and self-sufficiency
  
• Self-organized and independent work style
  
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills
  
• Highly proficient in spoken and written English and German
  

Our Offer:

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We offer ideal conditions for you to complete your doctoral degree:

• Support from highly qualified scientists at IEK-13
  
• Access to cutting-edge high-performance computing infrastructure at Forschungszentrum Jülich
  
• Diverse opportunities to develop professional skills (e.g., within the HITEC Graduate School)
  
• Network with globally leading academic and industrial partners
  
• Excellent prospects and career opportunities in a highly dynamic technology sector
  
• 30 days of annual leave and provision for days off between public holidays and weekends (e.g. between Christmas and New Year)
  
• Further development of your personal strengths, e.g. through an extensive range of training courses; a structured program of continuing education and networking opportunities specifically for doctoral researchers via JuDocS, the Jülich Center for Doctoral Researchers and Supervisors: https://www.fz-juelich.de/en/judocs
  
• Targeted services for international employees, e.g. through our International Advisory Service
  

In addition to exciting tasks and a collaborative working atmosphere at Jülich, we have a lot more to offer: https://go.fzj.de/benefits

The employment of doctoral researchers at Jülich is governed by a doctoral contract, which usually has a term of three years. Attractive pay in line with 75% of pay group 13 of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund) and additionally 60 % of a monthly salary as special payment („Christmas bonus“). Further information on doctoral degrees at Forschungszentrum Jülich including our other locations is available at: https://www.fz-juelich.de/gp/Careers_Docs

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.