PhD Position - Automation in Ink and Interface Characterization for Electrochemical Applications

Your Job:

You will be part of a research team that applies high-throughput experimentation to accelerate research in the emerging field of electrocatalysis. Catalyst inks are at the forefront of the development of new energy applications such as fuel cells and electrolysers. You will integrate and operate automated laboratory equipment to ensure reproducible and data-rich experiments. Close collaboration with chemists, engineers, and data scientists will enable the creation of a robust, high-throughput framework for future catalyst and layer development and efficient optimisation. The following topics will be part of this PhD position:

• (Semi-)Automated production of catalyst inks from commercial materials
  
• Development of characterization workflow for catalyst inks and interfaces
  
• Establishment of a research data management system and ontology
  
• Benchmarking state of the art materials as a baseline for the developed system
  
• Operation and further Development of an automated setup for catalyst inks and layers
  
• Method development of innovative characterization techniques for elecrocatalytic reactions
  
• Close collaboration with data scientists and automation specialists to develop a reliable, fast, material testing process

Your Profile:

• Excellent masters degree in physics, electrical engineering, mechatronics, process engineering or a similar field
  
• Strong interest in pursuing research on electrochemical systems and applied automation
  
• Experience in one (or more) of the following areas is desirable: automation and data processing, prototyping, device/interface communication, and databases.
  
• Experience in the following areas desirable but not essential: electrocatalysis, rheology, coating technology, machine learning
  
• Intrinsic motivation to show initiative, creativity, and to work independently
  
• Excellent cooperation and communication skills and ability to work as part of the team
  
• Excellent organizational skills
  
• High motivation for pursuing a PhD within 3 years
  
• Fluent command of written and spoken English is required (at least B2 level according to the CEFR: https://go.fzj.de/languagerequirements )

Our Offer:

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We offer ideal conditions for you to complete your doctoral degree:

• TEAM & ENVIRONMENT: You will work in a motivated team with an international and interdisciplinary focus – at one of the largest research institutions in Europe
  
• RESEARCH & INFRASTRUCTURE: You will have access to excellent scientific and technical facilities for your work
  
• WORK-LIFE BALANCE: We offer flexible working hours to help you balance your professional and personal life. You also have the option of flexible working (in terms of location), which is generally possible after consultation and in line with upcoming tasks and (on-site) appointments
  
• VACATION: You will receive 30 days of vacation
  
• KNOWLEDGE & DEVELOPMENT: Your professional development is important to us – we support you specifically and individually e.g., through training and networking opportunities specifically for doctoral candidates (JuDocS): https://go.fzj.de/JuDocs
  
• FAIR REMUNERATION: Depending on your qualifications and assigned responsibilities, you will be classified according to pay group 13 (75%) of the TVöD-Bund. Additionally, you will receive a special payment (“Christmas bonus”) amounting to 60% of one month’s salary. All information about the TVöD-Bund collective agreement can be found on the BMI website (pay scale table on page 66 of the PDF download): https://go.fzj.de/bmi.tvoed
  
• FIXED-TERM: The position is limited to 3 years
  
• SUPPORT FOR INTERNATIONAL EMPLOYEES: Our International Advisory Service makes it easier for international employees to get started
  

In addition to exciting tasks and a collegial working environment, we offer you much more: https://go.fzj.de/benefits

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.

The following links provide further information on diversity and equal opportunities: https://go.fzj.de/equality and on specific support options: https://go.fzj.de/womens-job-journey

Place of employment: Nürnberg