• Chemistry
• Solid State Research & Material Sciences
• Particle, Plasma and Quantum Physics

Art der Stelle

Postdoc position (m/f/d) | Functionalization of UHV-Prepared Single Crystals for CO2RR

Stellenangebot vom 27.02.2025

The Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society for the Advancement of Science is one of the most internationally renowned research institutes. More than 400 employees in 5 scientific departments conduct and facilitate top-level research on historic grounds in Berlin-Dahlem, which is unique worldwide.

The Department of Interface Science headed by Prof. Beatriz Roldán Cuenya at the Fritz Haber Institute carries out cutting-edge research on advanced functional materials with applications in heterogeneous catalysis, energy conversion and electrochemistry. By combining unique synthesis methods, state-of-the art tools for operando experimental characterization and advanced approaches to data analysis, atomistic details of thermal catalysis and electrocatalytic reactions at gas/solid and liquid/solid interfaces are revealed. In particular, structure-reactivity correlations on nanostructured materials can be established, paving the way for the rational design of novel catalytic materials.

A postdoctoral position is available in the Metal-Organic Interfaces (MOIN) group headed by Dr. Juan J. Navarro.

The preparation and characterization of single crystal surfaces using ultra-high vacuum (UHV) techniques is a powerful approach to gain mechanistic insight into electrocatalytic processes. It allows atomic-level control of the morphology and chemical composition of the catalytic surface before electrolysis and structural and chemical characterization after electrochemical experiments. In this project, UHV techniques and electrochemical methods will be used to modify single crystal surfaces with organic molecules, aiming to develop novel metal-organic interfaces for CO2RR.

The selected candidate will join the Metal-Organic Interfaces (MOIN) group to work in a highly interdisciplinary field combining electrochemistry, surface science and organic chemistry. Electrochemical experiments will be combined with UHV techniques such as scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), low energy electron diffraction (LEED) or high-resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy (HREELS).

The postdoctoral position is initially for one year, with the possibility of extension.

Requirements

• A PhD in chemistry, physics or chemical engineering.
• A solid background in electrochemistry, preferably with experience in single crystals.
• Hands-on experience with ultra-high vacuum techniques is desirable.
• Experience in performing complex experiments with a strong drive to independently solve scientific and practical/instrumental challenges.
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
• Excellent English skills.

We offer

• An attractive, diverse work environment and a varied role where you make an important contribution to international research.
• Access to world-class laboratory and analytical infrastructure.
• Modern and predominantly electronic workflows.
• Attractive and individualized training opportunities, e.g., through the Planck Academy.
• Extensive on-site technical training
• Subsidy for the job ticket.
• Very good connections to public transport, bicycle parking, charging stations for e-cars, good parking facilities.
• A friendly and respectful international working environment.

Your application

Please submit your application via our online application portal as soon as possible including the following documents:

• Curriculum vitae
• List of publications
• List of courses + GPA
• Names and email addresses of three references.

Applications will be accepted from immediately until the position is filled. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

For more information, please contact:

Dr. Juan J. Navarro (jjnavarro@fhi.mpg.de)
Fritz-Haber-Institut der Max-Planck-Gesellschaft
Faradayweg 4-6
14195 Berlin
Germany

The Max Planck Society endeavors to achieve gender equality and diversity. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society aims to increase the participation of women in research. Therefore, applications by women are particularly welcome. The Max Planck Society is also committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals.