PhD Student (f/m/d) in Developing Thin Film Catalysts for Electrochemical Water Splitting Using[...]

PhD Student (f/m/d) in Developing Thin Film Catalysts for Electrochemical Water Splitting Using Digital Catalysis and High Throughput Screening

Reference No.: CE 2026/4

In the Electrocatalysis: Synthesis to Devices group at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB), we are committed to developing new catalysts for electrochemical energy applications. Through our newly funded ACCELERATED SOLUTIONS for CATALYSIS project (ASCEND), we aim to design and scale up thin‑film active and inexpensive materials for electrolysers, enabling large‑scale implementation of renewable energy generation. We are hiring two doctoral students to work alongside our team to develop inexpensive, efficient, and stable water‑splitting catalyst layers.

Responsibilities

• Design, synthesize, and characterize metal, MXene, and hybrid metal/MXene materials through various routes.
• Develop and perform ex‑situ and in‑situ characterization protocols to understand material activity‑structural relationships.
• Conduct extensive OER and HER evaluation measurements in three‑electrode cells and electrolyser devices.
• Fabricate electrodes and support general lab management duties, including chemical orders and setup of gas lines.
• Assist in initiating collaborations with industry partners.

Candidate Profile

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, physics, or related field.
• Strong background in materials synthesis and characterization.
• Experience in data science or high‑throughput methods.
• Experience in electrocatalysis and/or working with electrolyser devices.
• Experience with in‑situ/operando spectroscopic methods (XPS, XAS, Raman) is advantageous.
• Very good command of English (C1 or higher) for scientific writing and communication.
• High level of intercultural competence and ability to work both independently and in a team.

Benefits

• Work at an internationally recognized non‑university research centre with state‑of‑the‑art facilities.
• Collaborate with leading electrocatalysis and material science groups worldwide.
• Flexible working hours and the possibility to work remotely.
• Career‑enhancing networking opportunities and individual guidance through our Graduate Centre and Postdoc Office.
• 30 days of vacation per year with remuneration according to the collective agreement for the public sector (TVöD Bund) and a company pension plan.
• Advisory services on family and career matters.
• Subsidy for public transport and exclusive employee discounts.
• Relocation support for non‑EU candidates.
• German courses for all proficiency levels.

We value diversity and aim to promote equal opportunities. Applications from women and people with disabilities are highly encouraged where qualifications are met.

CONTACT

Dr. Michelle Browne, Helmholtz‑Zentrum Berlin