PhD position: Operando X-ray spectroscopy on electrocatalytic interfaces (1.0 FTE)

Descrizione

Testo originale dell'annuncio (in inglese)

Project description This project is part of the MSCA Doctoral Networks program e-ChemIn, connecting 10 research institutes and 3 companies across Europe in a joint effort to identify design electrochemical interfaces for electrocatalysis and batteries. You will investigate how the properties of the electrode-electrolyte interface can be leveraged to optimize the activity, selectivity, and stability of electrocatalytic systems for H2O oxidation to H2O2, H2O reduction to H2 and NO3- reduction to NH3, in close connection to the catalyst development efforts in the consortium. Using operando XPS and soft XAS, you will resolve the active electrode-electrolyte interface structure present under catalytic conditions, and study how it changes when the catalyst structure (e.g. crystallinity and elemental ratio) and electrolyte composition (pH, ions) are varied. By linking this to the observed activity, stability and selectivity, you will build interface design principles for electrocatalytic systems. During the project, you will collaborate with various partners in the consortium, including partners working on catalyst synthesis, complementary surface X-ray diffraction, and complementary (in situ) electron microscopy. Secondments (short-term academic and/or industrial research stays) are an integral part of the doctoral training program: According to current project plans 2 secondments are foreseen: 1) 4 months at the University of Trieste (Prof. Paolo Fornasiero), working on the preparation of electrocatalysts for anodic H2O2 production. 2) 4 months at the University of Liverpool (Dr. Yvonne Grunder) for SXRD studies to complement the operando X-ray spectroscopies for resolving electrode-electrolyte interface structures. This project is a good match for you if you like: Understanding electrochemistry at the molecular level Working with advanced measurement techniques Working as a team, both within the group and in collaborations with other institutes The selected candidate will be required to enroll in a PhD program at Leiden University and will be supervised by: Main supervisor: Dr. Rik Mom, Leiden University https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/research/research-projects/science/operando-research-in-electrochemistry Co-supervisor: Dr. Yvonne Grunder, University of Liverpool https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/physics/research/condensed-matter-physics/ Co-supervisor from secondment: Prof. Paolo Fornasiero, University of Trieste https://meeresearch.weebly.com/ Further information on the other projects within the consortium can be found on Euraxess. Selection criteria Applicants must not already hold a doctoral degree at the date of recruitment. Applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in The Netherlands for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before the recruitment date . Eligibility will be verified at the time of recruitment. We are looking for a highly motivated candidate, who has: A Master’s degree in Chemistry or Physics, Materials Science or a related discipline; A strong interest in spectroscopy and electrochemistry; Excellent proficiency in English; Good technical experimental skills. You should feel comfortable working in a collaborative environment with experimentally complex experiments. Analytical thinking, creativity, and an independent working attitude are highly valued. Experience with electrochemistry, vacuum equipment, or in situ spectroscopy is considered an advantage. Terms of employment We offer a position for initially one year and upon satisfactory performance to be extended for three more years. You will be appointed in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The salary ranges from €3.059,- to €3.881,- gross per month, depending on experience (pay scale P in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities). Mobility and family allowances as applicable according to Marie Skłodowska-Curie PhD fellowship schem Annuncio in ingl