PostDoc Position (m/f/d) | Interface Science

The Department of Interface Science www.fhi.mpg.de/isc-department 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 currently offer a PostDoc Position (m/f/d) in the group Dynamics at Electrocatalytic Interface at the Department of Interface Science.

The successful candidate will participate in our endeavor to increase the fundamental understanding of physical and chemical processes at the solid liquid interface during coupled direct air capture (DAC) and CO₂ electroreduction (DAC-CO₂RR) into hydrocarbons and alcohols under industrially-relevant conditions. The goal is to identify the potential of combining CO₂-capturing molecular additives and electrocatalytic CO₂RR to enable the sustainable production of synthesis gas as well as alcohols, hydrocarbons and other valuable chemicals. We aim to identify reaction bottlenecks and develop strategies on the atomic as well as device level to improve DAC-CO₂RR for industrial applications.

In the project, the tasks of the successful candidate will be to study the electrocatalytic performance (activity, selectivity and stability) of oxide-derived and thin film Cu and Ag electrocatalysts during DAC-CO₂RR, develop innovative electrode or electrochemical cell configurations to improve the catalytic performance of DAC-CO₂RR. Additionally, state-of-the-art laboratory- and synchrotron-based operando methods such as X-ray diffraction, X-ray absorption, X-ray photoemission and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy will be applied by the candidate or in collaboration with other members of our department. Close collaboration with existing industrial partners is expected to ensure efficient knowledge exchange.

We offer an excellent, vital, inclusive and international research environment with a comprehensive collection of state-of-the-art characterization methods covering surface science, electron and scanning probe microscopy as well as structural/electronic and catalytic performance characterization tools. We also can provide regular access to domestic and international synchrotron facilities.

The PostDoc position is initially limited to 1 year with the expectation of a further extension up to three years.

Requirements

We expect the PostDoc candidate to have:

• PhD degree in physics, chemistry, chemical engineering, material science or related field.
• Strong Experience in Electrochemistry and Electrocatalysis and basic knowledge in organic chemistry.
• Experience with operando spectroscopic techniques such as synchrotron-based techniques (X-ray absorption spectroscopy, (high-energy) X-ray diffraction or related methods) would be considered as an advantage.
• Basic programming skills and experience, interest in data science methods would be helpful
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals
• Ability to work in an international team
• Good language and communication skills in English

Your Application

Please submit your application via our online application portal as soon as possible but latest by June 30^th, 2024 including the following documents:

• Curriculum vitae
• List of publications
• Names and email addresses of at least three references

For more information, please contact: 
Dr. Arno Bergmann (abergmann@fhi-berlin.mpg.de) 
Fritz-Haber-Institut der Max-Planck-Gesellschaft, Faradayweg 4-6, 14195 Berlin

Max Planck Society

The Max-Planck-Gesellschaft 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.

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.