Deadline: Rolling
The research groups of Profs. Copéret and Müller at the ETH Zurich Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences/Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering are looking for excellent candidates to fill two joint PhD positions in the area of sustainable catalysis.
About the PhD Programme
The development of more active and selective catalysts for key industrial transformations such as the dehydrogenation of alkanes is key to reduce the energy requirements and CO2 footprint of the often endothermic reactions and downstream separation processes. Furthermore, toxic catalyst components ought to be replaced by at least equally active, yet environmentally benign substitutes.
The project explores the development of highly active and selective, heterogeneous catalysts with attention to catalyst synthesis and characterization and mechanistic aspects. The ultimate goal of the project is the establishment of guiding principles to design novel catalyst formulations with the potential to replace existing industrial catalysts that are either toxic or rely on a comparatively high loading of noble metals.
Working in a top-level research environment with advanced laboratory infrastructure, the candidates will have a unique opportunity to develop their research abilities. The positions are available from April 2022 onwards.
Duties and Responsibilities
- The PhD students participating in this research projects are expected to develop model catalysts with a well-defined structure, morphology and composition. Besides their activity, selectivity and stability under reaction conditions, their bulk and surface structures shall be mapped out utilizing a broad portfolio of characterization methods, including XAS, XRD, IR, NMR and Raman spectroscopy, when possible under in situ/operando conditions.
Eligibility
Applicants for this PhD position are expected to have the following attributes:
- Applicants for these PhD positions are expected to have an excellent MSc degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or Material Science.
- Experience in the field of catalyst synthesis and/or characterization is important and highly valued.
- They are looking for highly motivated, committed, and creative individuals, able to work in a team and with outstanding communication skills.
Application
To apply for this position, they look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:
- a letter of motivation,
- CV,
- diplomas, grades and
- Shortlisted candidates will be asked to provide contact details of two referees.
Please note that they exclusively accept applications submitted through their online application portal link below. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.
Further questions about the position, Questions regarding these positions should be directed to Prof. Copéret or Prof Müller by email at ccoperet@ethz.ch and muelchri@ethz.ch (no applications).
For more information, Visit the institution website
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