PhD Position in Industrial Electrochemistry

Stellenbeschreibung:

Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry: Activation of Small Molecules / Technical Electrochemistry. In order to fill a fixed-term position in part-time (26,6861 hours/week = 67%) by June 01, 2026, we are looking for 1.

PhD Position 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 centre 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 membrane electrode assemblies within the framework of the Cluster of Excellence RESOLV. You will independently design, fabricate and optimise catalyst‑coated electrodes and related materials for CO₂ electrolysis, and conduct experiments in state‑of‑the‑art electrochemical cell systems. In addition, you will apply spectroscopic methods to gain a deeper understanding of material structure, composition and catalytic function under operating conditions. You will carefully analyse 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, 36 months
Start: by June 01, 2026
Apply by: 2026‑04‑27

Your tasks:

Independent planning and execution of experiments
Fabrication of membrane electrode assemblies
Setup and operation of electrochemical test systems
Spectroscopic investigations
Data analysis and evaluation
Contribution to cell and process development
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 with electrochemical characterization methods such as cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry and impedance spectroscopy.
Practical knowledge of zero‑gap flow cell setups and their operation under relevant conditions for electrolysis research.
Experience in catalyst ink formulation and electrode preparation.
Familiarity with advanced analytical and spectroscopic techniques to evaluate catalyst performance and electrode stability.
Ability to independently design, conduct and troubleshoot experiments, ensuring reproducibility and data integrity.
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.
Required university degree: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Materials Science or a related discipline, with excellent academic results.

We offer:

Challenging and varied tasks with a high level of independence
A dynamic and supportive interdisciplinary environment where chemists and engineers collaborate closely to tackle cutting‑edge challenges in electrolysis and energy conversion.
Access to state‑of‑the‑art laboratories and advanced equipment, including automated electrochemical test platforms and Zero‑Gap cells.
Opportunities for independent research as well as teamwork, fostering personal and professional growth.
A culture that values open communication, creativity and the exchange of ideas across disciplines.
Close cooperation with industrial partners and renowned research institutions, providing excellent networking and career development prospects.
Support for attending international conferences, workshops and training to expand your scientific horizon and visibility.
A commitment to sustainability and making a tangible impact on the energy transition and climate protection.
Integration into the cluster of excellence RESOLV

Further information:

The position is salaried and based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV‑L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade E13 TV‑L.

Further information can be found at (in German).

The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.

If the position is funded by third‑party funds the employee has no teaching obligation.

RUB sees itself as a university with an international presence. The campus languages are German and English. Competence in at least one of the two languages and willingness to learn the other are a prerequisite. RUB provides corresponding free courses for employees.

German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZFA) in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF).

The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews. At the request of a candidate (m/f/x), it will ensure its participation in the entire procedure. Please contact