PhD position (m/f/d) in electrochemical conversion of CO2 to ethylene

PhD position (m/f/d) in electrochemical conversion of CO₂ to ethylene

The group Electrochemical Energy Systems offers a PhD position (m/f/d) in electrochemical conversion of CO₂ to ethylene.

Context

Ethylene is a foundational chemical feedstock predominantly produced from fossil resources, driving significant CO₂ emissions. Electrochemical routes that convert captured carbon to ethylene offer a pathway to decarbonise the supply chain. Performing electrolysis directly from carbon capture solutions can reduce the energy and capital costs associated with gas‑phase CO₂ handling. Advances in membrane chemistry, catalyst design, and process integration are critical to making this route scalable and cost‑competitive.

Your Task

Your tasks include developing the first demonstrator of an electrochemical ethylene‑production system by integrating a reactor, electrodes, and bipolar membranes. You will lead the reactor and electrode design to optimise stable, selective, and energy‑efficient operation. Additionally, you will implement and characterise bipolar membranes from project partners. The project is carried out in close collaboration with a start‑up company, offering strong industry integration and practical relevance.

You will also plan and execute systematic experiments, perform electrochemical and materials characterisation, and use data analysis and simple modelling to guide design choices. Furthermore, you will prepare manuscripts and presentations for group meetings and conferences.

Your profile

• Very good Master’s degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, or engineering, or similar
• Profound knowledge in electrochemical methods
• Excellent communication skills and team spirit are absolutely necessary
• You are interested in the development of novel systems for a sustainable society
• You work target‑oriented and structured
• You enjoy working in the lab

The position

• We offer excellent working conditions in the interdisciplinary “electrochemical energy systems” EES group with a motivated, nice, and respectful working atmosphere
• Cutting‑edge equipment for electrolysis and material development
• Typical duration of a PhD is planned for three years (80 % TV‑L 13)
• The working language is English or German
• Ideal starting date: March 2026
• Family‑friendly, flexible working hours

The position is limited to 28. Februar 2029. The salary will be determined in accordance with TV‑L 13.

Bewerbung

• Bewerbungsfrist: 5. Januar 2026
• Veröffentlichungsdatum: 4. Dezember 2025
• Eintrittstermin: 1. März 2026
• Arbeitsumfang: Part‑time position (80 %)
• Kennziffer:

Please send your application including supporting documents citing the reference number  by 5. Januar 2026 at the latest. Please send your application to the following address in written or electronic form:

Electrochemical Energy Systems IMTEK, University of Freiburg, Georges‑Koehler‑Allee 10 37 910 Freiburg

For further information, please contact Herr Luca Bohn on the phone number +49 761 216 361 725 or E‑Mail 

Jetzt bewerben

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