PhD Student (index no. 5423-00)

The Paul Scherrer Institute PSI is the largest research institute for natural and engineering sciences within Switzerland. We perform cutting-edge research in the fields of matter and materials, energy and environment and human health. By performing fundamental and applied research, we work on sustainable solutions for major challenges facing society, science and economy. PSI is committed to the training of future generations. Therefore, about one quarter of our staff are post-docs, post-graduates or apprentices. Altogether, PSI employs 2100 people.

For the Electrocatalysis and Interface Group in the Electrochemestry Laboratory we are looking for a

PhD Student

Synthesis and development of non-noble metal oxide electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction in alkaline or quasi neutral environement

Your tasks

• Your work will be focused on the development of non-noble metal oxide catalysts for the anodic reaction of alkaline electrolyzers. The catalysts will be also tested in quasi-neutral environment for application as oxygen electrode in co-electrolyzers
• The catalysts will be characterized electrochemically and by XRD, TEM and different spectroscopy techniques, both with laboratory equipment and the the Swiss Light Source SLS (synchroton facilities at PSI)
• The project is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation, SNSF-PRIMA grant "Materials developments for energy storage through water electrolysis: advanced characterization methods and new design principles for oxide electrocatalysts"
• During your PhD you will interact extensively with your colleagues within the electrochemistry laboratory, the SLS and international collaborators