PhD Student (m/f/x) in Industrial Electrochemistry

In order to fill a fixed-term position in part-time (26,6861 hours/week = 67%) at the earliest possible date, we are looking for 1

PhD Student (m/f/x) in Industrial Electrochemistry

We are a dedicated and interdisciplinary team of chemists and engineers, united by our passion for electrolysis and its pivotal role in the energy transition. We combine cutting-edge fundamental research with practical, scalable application solutions to help drive climate protection forward. In our daily work, we rely on state-of-the-art analytical and simulation tools, and we maintain close collaborations with industrial partners, research institutions, and stakeholders. Our goal: to develop customized, forward-thinking solutions for complex challenges in electrochemical technologies. Our research and development portfolio covers a wide spectrum — from designing novel electrolysis materials and optimizing process conditions to scaling up from lab-scale prototypes to industrial systems for hydrogen generation, CO₂ conversion reaction, bioelectrochemical as well as electroorganic systems. Throughout all our activities, quality, innovation, and long-term impact take center stage. As a reliable and forward-looking partner, we accompany our collaborators on their journey toward a more sustainable future.

As a research associate (m/f/x), you will play an active role in advancing electrochemical CO₂ reduction through the development of high-performance bipolar membrane electrode assemblies within the framework of the Cluster of Excellence RESOLV. You will independently conduct experiments in state-of-the-art CO₂ electrolyzers and apply spectroscopic methods to gain a deeper understanding of material structure and catalytic function under operating conditions. You will carefully analyze the resulting data and contribute your ideas and expertise to the development of next-generation electrode materials and technologies for efficient CO₂ conversion.

Scope: part-time
Duration: fixed-term, 3 years
Start: at the earliest possible date
Apply by: 2026-08-11

Your tasks:

• Independent planning and execution of experiments
• Fabrication and characterization of membrane electrode assemblies
• Setup and operation of electrochemical test systems
• Spectroscopic investigations, data analysis and evaluation
• Design and development of cells for in situ spectroscopy
• Scientific communication and dissemination
• Collaboration in an interdisciplinary team
• Participation in the Cluster of Excellence RESOLV

Your profile:

• Experienced chemist with a strong background in electrochemistry, including hands-on experience in electrochemical characterization (e.g., chronoamperometry, impedance spectroscopy, and DRT analysis).
• Practical knowledge of zero-gap flow cell setups and their operation under relevant electrolysis conditions.
• Experience in the design and development of electrochemical cells; familiarity with CAD tools is a plus.
• Familiarity with advanced analytical and spectroscopic techniques for evaluating membrane electrode assemblies
• Proven ability to independently design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments, ensuring reproducibility and data integrity; experience with digital tools for managing and analyzing large datasets is a plus.
• Open-minded, collaborative team player, able to work effectively in interdisciplinary environments and adapt to evolving project needs.
• Strong scientific communication skills in English (written and oral), with the ability to document results clearly and present findings to diverse audiences.
• Required university degree: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline, with excellent academic results.

https://jobs.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/jobposting/8abaa2b9c855a7dd7124804174e84bec0d4cc17f0?ref=AfA