PhD (f/m/d) for the Investigation of Electrocatalyst Materials for Green Hydrogen Production Using Synchrotron-Based X-Ray Spectroscopies

PhD (f/m/d) for the Investigation of Electrocatalyst Materials for Green Hydrogen Production Using Synchrotron-Based X-Ray Spectroscopies

PhD (f/m/d) for the Investigation of Electrocatalyst Materials for Green Hydrogen Production Using Synchrotron-Based X-Ray Spectroscopies

Reference No.: SE 2026/15

The research in the Department for Interface Design at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie GmbH focuses on surface and interface analysis of energy conversion devices and materials. We are using synchrotron-based X-ray spectroscopy methods to reveal the electronic and chemical structure of those relevant interfaces that control the material’s performance. In the framework of the ASCEND project that aims to accelerate the development of next-generation catalysts, we are looking for a doctoral researcher strengthening our team, to study electrocatalysts devoted to oxidative reactions for green hydrogen production while simultaneously generating valuable chemical products. The main task will be to further adapt and develop operando and in-situ analysis approaches in combination with electrochemical protocols to study catalyst candidate materials under electrocatalytically relevant conditions in order to unravel the mechanisms limiting their performance.

Your Tasks

• You study the chemical and electronic structure of electrocatalysts with X-ray spectroscopic techniques.
• You plan and conduct experiments - in labs and at synchrotron radiation sources.
• You efficiently communicate and cooperate with other researchers within ASCEND and the HZB to jointly work on project tasks to reach milestones.
• You take on research and project management tasks.
• You curate data and prepare reports, presentations, and publications.
• You support the further development of spectroscopic methods for the characterization of catalysts for the production of green fuel.

Your Profile

• Completed master’s degree in physics, chemistry, materials science or equivalent degree
• Expert in electrocatalysis
• Demonstrated experience in research with electrochemical techniques
• Knowledge of X-ray spectroscopies, operating ultra-high vacuum equipment is of advantage
• Some lab experience in the synthesis of nanomaterials is of advantage
• Experience (or manifest interest) in data fitting as well as programming in Python
• Intercultural competence and excellent communication skills
• Excellent proficiency in English (C1-level), while some German knowledge would be appreciated

Your Benefits

At Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin, you benefit from state-of-the-art research infrastructure, an international and collaborative working environment, and a wide range of opportunities for your professional development:

• The opportunity to contribute to the development of innovative materials and technological solutions for a climate-neutral future in cooperation with leading international researchers
• Flexible working hours and the possibility to work remotely
• Career-enhancing networking opportunities, individual guidance, and support through our Graduate Center and Postdoc Office
• 30 days of vacation per year and attractive remuneration according to the collective agreement for the public sector (TVöD Bund), plus company pension plan
• Advisory services on family and career matters through our Office for Work & Life
• Subsidy for the public transport “Deutschlandticket Job” and exclusive employee discounts
• Relocation support from non-EU countries
• German and English courses for all proficiency levels

Fixed term contract for 48 months. The salary is based on the Collective Agreement for the German Public Service (TVöD-Bund).

How to apply

We kindly ask you to enclose the following documents with your application:

• Motivation letter, including your research interests and a statement why you think you are the perfect fit for this position (max. 1 page)
• Experiment proposal to address one pressing question in the field of electrocatalysis for green hydrogen production with operando X-ray spectroscopy (max. 1 page)  
• Curriculum vitae with the stages of your career, publications, research experience and the contact details of at least two scientific references
• Certificates and grades

We look forward to receiving your application via our application management system by 28.10.2026. For reasons of data protection regulations, we are unfortunately unable to consider applications that reach us by any other means (such as email or mail) in the application process.

We very much want our workplace to be diverse, and welcome applications from people with different backgrounds. It is our mission to promote equal opportunities and to improve women’s representation in the workforce. We are therefore very interested in receiving applications from women. Where the qualifications are met, we will give preference to people with disabilities.

For German version, please click on the following link: German Version.

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