PhD Position in Mechanical Engineering
Overview
The Electrochemical Energy Systems Laboratory at ETH Zurich is seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join its research on electrocatalytic energy conversion.
The research group investigates how electrolyte environments govern reaction mechanisms, kinetics, and product selectivity at electrochemical interfaces. By combining electrochemistry with advanced operando characterization techniques, the laboratory uncovers fundamental mechanisms that guide the rational design of next-generation electrochemical energy conversion systems.
Project Background
Electrochemical energy conversion offers a promising pathway toward sustainable chemical manufacturing powered by renewable electricity. However, controlling reaction pathways and product selectivity remains a major scientific challenge because electrochemical reactions are governed by complex interfacial processes that are still not fully understood.
This PhD project focuses on investigating how electrolyte environments influence reaction mechanisms in the electrochemical CO₂ reduction reaction (CO₂RR) and related electrocatalytic processes.
The project combines advanced operando characterization techniques, including:
- FTIR
- DEMS
- EQCM
- GC
- Synchrotron-based characterization methods (where appropriate)
with detailed electrochemical studies to uncover the fundamental principles governing electrochemical interfaces.
Job Description
The successful candidate will:
- Design and perform electrochemical experiments to investigate electrocatalytic reaction mechanisms.
- Employ advanced operando characterization techniques to probe electrochemical interfaces.
- Analyze and interpret experimental data to develop mechanistic understanding.
- Contribute to the development of new concepts for electrolyte-controlled electrocatalysis.
- Present research at international conferences.
- Publish findings in leading scientific journals.
- Collaborate with researchers within the laboratory and with international collaborators.
Candidate Profile
Applicants should:
- Hold (or be close to completing) a Master's degree in: Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, or a closely related field.
- Be highly motivated, curious, and self-driven.
- Enjoy addressing fundamental scientific questions.
- Thrive in an interdisciplinary and collaborative research environment.
Advantageous Experience (Not Required)
Experience in one or more of the following areas is beneficial: Electrochemistry and/or electrocatalysis; In situ or operando characterization techniques; Synchrotron-based characterization methods.
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