The successful candidate will be at the forefront of cutting-edge research involving the development of next-generation catalytic materials for electrochemical conversion of nitrate to ammonia. The primary focus will encompass the investigation of catalytic properties of newly synthesized nanomaterials, with a particular emphasis on understanding phenomena such as the role of defects, geometry (0D,1D,2D) for nitrogen electrocatalysis, influence of reaction parameters such as nitrate species concentration on kinetics and selectivity of electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction. The candidate will also contribute to the study on structure-activity correlation by surface sensitive quasi in-situ/in-operando spectroscopic methods to identify the active sites of the novel nanocatalysts prepared for direct application in membrane-based electrochemical energy devices.

The selected candidate may actively participate in interdisciplinary collaborations with leading researchers in Israel and the Czech Republic, working alongside experts in materials chemistry, electrocatalysis, and specialists in X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. This research initiative offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the forefront of electrochemical energy storage and conversion and will shape the mechanistic understanding of electrochemical ammonia synthesis.

Academic Qualification:

-        Master’s thesis grade equivalent of 85 (GPA of 3.3) or higher from an accredited academic institution. Master project thesis grade provided by the academic institute is an essential requirement.

-      A strong background in chemistry/chemical /electrochemical engineering is highly desirable.

-      Experimental skills in synthesis and physicochemical characterization of 2D materials/metal oxide/multimetallic alloy nanoparticles will be advantageous.

Skills:

-      A strong background in Materials Chemistry, Electrochemistry, or a related field.

-      Proficiency in synthesis and structural characterization of catalytic nanoparticles.

-      Background in assembly and testing of electrodes in electrochemical flow cells.

-      Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.

The mentors of the position are Professor Dr. Alex Schechter and Dr. Palaniappan Subramanian, e-mail: [email protected] %20and%[email protected] %20

Expected commencement of work: February 2025

Reception of applications: until 16 November 2024.

Requested form of a candidate´s application:

-      structured curriculum vitae

-      motivation letter

-      list of subjects and grades from Bachelor’s and Master’s Studies

-      copies of the documents proving achieved education (Master's degree or its equivalent),

-      copies of documents proving the achieved level of the English language*

*Official IELTS test score – minimum grade of 6.5 for students who did not previously study at an academic institution where English was the official language of instruction OR If the master’s degree was granted by an institution where English is the official language of instruction, please provide an official letter from that institution stating as such.

-      title and abstract of Master’s thesis

-      contact information of at least two professional references

Candidates should send all the above-mentioned details as a single pdf file to:

Prof. Dr. Alex Schechter,

e-mail: [email protected]

and

Dr. Palaniappan Subramanian, Ph.D.,

e-mail: [email protected]

The application form, together with all the required documents, is to be submitted electronically. If you have any technical questions, please contact the mentor of this position.