Research Associate (m/f/x) for electrochemcial alcohol synthesis

In order to fill a fixed-term position in full-time (39.83 hours/week = 100%) at the earliest possible date, we are looking for 1

Research Associate (m/f/x) for electrochemcial alcohol synthesis

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 alcohol synthesis. You will establish a test setup for the electrochemical conversion of CO₂ and CO to alcohols, establish suitable product analytics, and execute electrolysis experiments. You will fabricate and optimize membrane electrode assemblies and related materials for operation in state-of-the-art electrochemical systems. 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 electrochemical alcohol synthesis.

Scope: full-time
Duration: fixed-term, 2 years
Start: at the earliest possible date
Apply by: 2028-08-11

Your tasks:

• Independent planning and execution of experiments
• Design, implementation, and operation of a test bench for the electrochemical conversion of CO₂ and CO to alcohols
• Development of suitable protocols for product quantification
• Fabrication, characterization, and optimization of membrane electrode assemblies for gas-fed electrolyzers
• Data analysis and evaluation
• Scientific communication and dissemination

Your profile:

• PhD in Chemistry, Process Engineering or a related discipline with excellent academic results
• Extensive experience with gas-fed MEA-based electrolyzers
• Experience with planning and implementing of electrochemical test benches including safety equipment
• Experience with analytical techniques for small organic molecules, especially GC and NMR
• Practical knowledge of fabrication and characterisation methods for electrodes/MEAs
• Open-minded and collaborative attitude, capable of working effectively in interdisciplinary teams and adapting to evolving project needs.
• Strong scientific communication skills in English, both written and oral, including the ability to document results clearly and present findings to diverse audiences.

https://jobs.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/jobposting/78a465a05208030193f5f5db3d32711b2bb20fb70?ref=AfA