SCIENTIST BERLIN

Chemistry Solid State Research & Material Sciences Particle, Plasma and Quantum Physics

Job Offer from April 11, 2022

The Department of Interface Science headed by Prof. Beatriz Roldán Cuenya at the Fritz Haber Institute in Berlin carries out cutting-edge research on advanced functional materials with applications in heterogeneous catalysis, energy conversion and electrochemistry. By combining unique synthesis methods, state-of-the art tools for experimental characterization and advanced approaches to data analysis, atomistic details of thermal catalysis and electrochemical reactions at gas/solid and liquid/solid interfaces are revealed. In particular, structure-reactivity correlations on nanostructured materials can be established, paving the way for the rational design of novel catalytic materials.

We are looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher (f/m/d) for the Structure and Reactivity group within the Department of Interface Science.

Project: Oxide-supported metal catalysts for ethanol steam reforming

The project focuses on rational design of highly active oxide-supported metal catalysts for (bio)-ethanol reforming into valuable products. It includes synthesis of metal nanoparticles with controllable size (down to single atoms) using conventional preparation methods as well as oxide support impregnation with micelles containing a metal precursor. Reducible oxides will be primarily used as supports for 3d-metal clusters. The synthesized materials will be characterized by different techniques such as x-ray diffraction, electron microscopy spectroscopy. Reactivity measurements will be carried out in flow reactors with online-GC analysis of products.

For molecular level understanding of the structure-reactivity relationships on these catalysts, we will also investigate planar model systems of different levels of complexity (e.g., single crystals, thin oxide films, metal nanoparticles on single crystals and oxide films). Metal particles can be prepared by physical vapor deposition or using colloidal chemistry. The model systems will be  structurally characterized by a variety of “surface science” techniques, such as scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), both in vacuum and at near atmospheric pressures; Auger electron spectroscopy (AES), a low energy electron diffraction (LEED). Temperature programmed desorption (TPD) and infrared reflection absorption spectroscopy (IRAS) will also be used for adsorption and reactivity studies.

Requirements

• A PhD degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering.
• A strong publication record
• Experience in catalysts preparation and reactivity measurements, e.g. using GC, mass-spec, etc. 
• Knowledge about vacuum-based techniques is profitable.
• Ability to solve scientific and instrumental challenges
• Collaborative spirit and good English skills.

Our offer

The Max Planck Society endeavours to achieve gender equality and diversity. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society aims to increase the participation of women in research. Therefore, applications by women are particularly welcome. The Max Planck Society is also committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals.

The Fritz Haber Institute (FHI) is located in the quiet south-west of Gemany’s capital Berlin, which is a large, tolerant and cosmopolitan city. Berlin offers a wide variety of culture, art, music, and outdoor opportunities.

Your Application

Please submit your application via our online application portal including the following documents:

• Curriculum vitae
• List of publications
• Recommendation letters or names and email addresses of references

Closing date: Applications will be accepted from immediately until the position is filled. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

For more information please contact:

Dr. Shamil Shaikhutdinov (shaikhutdinov@fhi-berlin.mpg.de)
Fritz-Haber-Institut der Max-Planck-Gesellschaft
Faradayweg 4-6
14195 Berlin
Deutschland