The Department of Interface Science headed by Prof. Beatriz Roldán Cuenya at the Fritz Haber Institute 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 student (m/f/d) for the Interfacial Ionics group at the Department of Interface Science.
Project: Electrocatalyst – Membrane Interfaces
Anion exchange membrane (AEM) and cation exchange membrane (CEM) electrolyzers are promising technologies to generate compressed green H2 at high current densities with a more compact cell design than traditional alkaline water electrolysis. However, so far, understanding about complex gas diffusion electrode – membrane interfaces is limited. Similarly, there exists a large knowledge gap about the impact of the interfacial membrane and ionomer environments on the performance of the HER and OER electrocatalysts and the influence of interfacial membrane electrolyte environments.
The selected candidate will be joining the Interfacial Ionics Group with the goal to fundamentally improve our understanding of membrane-electrocatalyst interfaces in membrane-based electrolyzers. To that end, you will use small-scale membrane electrode assemblies, electrochemical scanning probe microscopy and operando spectroscopy to study interfacial reactivity and stability of noble and earth-abundant catalysts on AEMs .
The PostDoc position is initially for one year but can be extended up to three years.
Requirements
We expect candidates to have a:
- A PhD degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Physics or Physical Chemistry, preferably with a specialization in Electrochemistry.
- A strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals for postdoc applicants.
- Experience at performing complex electrochemistry experiments with a high drive to solve scientific and practical/instrumental challenges independently.
- Experience working with Scanning Electrochemical Microscopy (SECM) is preferred.
- Experience working with Multiphysics simulations (e.g. COMSOL) and/or Python is preferred.
- Excellent English skills.
Application
Submit your application via our online application portal as soon as possible but latest by October 31, 2023 including the following documents:
- Curriculum vitae
- List of publications
- Names and email addresses of three references
For more information, please contact
Dr. Sebastian Oener
oener@fhi-berlin.mpg.de
Fritz-Haber-Institut der Max-Planck-Gesellschaft
Faradayweg 4-6
14195 Berlin
Germany
Max Planck Society
The Max Planck Society aims to increase the participation of women in research. Therefore, applications by women are particularly welcome. Handicapped individuals are especially encouraged to apply. These applicants will be given priority in the case of same qualifications.
We handle applications electronically, observing the German data privacy laws. By sending the application, the applicant declares his or her consent.
Berlin
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.