Etudes Non Stop Study Non Stop
Related Articles
Work group:
IEK-14 – Elektrochemische Verfahrenstechnik
Area of research:
PHD Thesis
Job description:
Electricity can be used as energy input to enable novel electrocatalytic conversions at mild conditions. A particularly promising route is the conversion of CO2 to CO (carbon monoxide) using the so-called CO2 electrolyzers. Annual production for carbon monoxide ranges around 75 Mt, with main feedstocks being methane and coal. CO is an important intermediate for the production of petrochemical products and plastics. The core idea of the EL-Cat project is to investigate and enable a radically novel and unprecedented CO2 reduction technology. In comparison to existing CO production processes, this new route promises lower CO2 emissions and can help to reach CO2 reduction targets. The core concept consists of the world’s first platinum group metal (PGM) free CO2 -electrolyzer with high selectivity in a aqueous electrolyte using anion exchange membranes (AEM). The focus of the PhD study is to integrate optimized non-PGM electrocatalysts and novel ionomers into highly efficient and durable membrane electrode assemblies.
Your Job:
-
- Optimization of ink / paste formulations and as well as to investigate suitable coating deposition technique for electrode manufacture using AEM ionomers and membrane materials
-
- Development of novel electrodes design and composition
-
- Physical chemical and electrochemical characterization of electrodes, MEAs, and short stacks
- Assessment of durability profiles and degradation mechanisms as well as development of accelerated stress tests
Your Profile:
- Master’s degree in chemistry, material science or a related field with above-average results
- Previous experience in electrode fabrication (e.g. Fuel Cells, Batteries, Solar Cells, or Electrolyzers)
- Previous experience in electrochemical characterization using half-cell and or single cell testing platforms
- Previous experience in physical chemical characterization methods and/or analytical chemistry
- Full competence in the English language (written and spoken)
- Good command of German, spoken and written is an advantage
Our Offer:
- A highly motivated group as well as an international and interdisciplinary working environment at one of Europe`s largest research establishments
- Outstanding scientific and technical infrastructure – ideal conditions for successfully completing a doctoral degree
- Chance of participating in (international) conferences and project meetings
- Continuous scientific mentoring by your scientific advisor
- Participation in overarching seminars including certificate
- Further development of your personal strengths, e.g. via a comprehensive further training programme
- Pay in line with 75 % of pay group 13 of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund)
Information on employment as a doctoral researcher at Forschungszentrum Jülich can be found here www.fz-juelich.de/gp/Careers_DocsForschungszentrum Jülich promotes equal opportunities and diversity in its employment relations.We also welcome applications from disabled persons.
