Doctoral Position (f/m/x) in Chemistry: N2 Reduction through TiO2 Aerogels University of Cologne in Germany

Doctoral Position (f/m/x) in Chemistry at the University of Cologne, working on N2 reduction through TiO2 aerogels within the Institute of Inorganic and Materials Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences.

The project is part of the DFG initiative “Ammonia on Site” and involves collaboration with partners including the University of Ulm, UBT, and DLR. The research is centred on the Nanostructured Cellular Materials group led by Professor Dr Milow, whose work focuses on highly porous, open-pored, nanostructured aerogels and their applications. In this position, you will contribute to the development of manufacturing processes for photochargeable TiO2 aerogels aimed at ammonia synthesis from N2, including time-delayed irradiation approaches and the simultaneous conversion of N2 and CO2 to urea.

Key tasks include physicochemical characterization, optimisation of synthesis parameters to tune porosity and doping, comparison of TiO2 aerogels from molecular precursors with TiO2 fibres and particles, investigation of reaction conditions affecting photocatalytic efficiency and activity, and adaptation of materials for liquid- and gas-phase reactors. The project is research-intensive and combines materials synthesis, characterization, photocatalysis, and reactor-oriented development.

Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in chemistry, materials chemistry, or a comparable subject. Practical experience in material production and optimisation is expected, and experience with aerogels or other highly porous materials is a strong advantage. The role also requires confidence in using measuring instruments independently and understanding the chemical and physical parameters that govern material properties. A security vetting process for employment at DLR is required.

The position is funded through a DFG project in cooperation with DLR and other partners. It is available from 1 November 2026 for a fixed term of 36 months, on a part-time basis of 26.69 hours per week. Salary follows remuneration group 13 TV-L according to the German public sector pay scale. The University of Cologne highlights equal opportunities, diversity, and a supportive working environment, with flexible working time models and extensive training opportunities.

Applications must be submitted online through the University of Cologne job portal, using reference number Wiss2608-14 and including proof of the required qualifications without a photo. The deadline is 15 September 2026. For further inquiries, contact Dr Danny Bialuschewski at [email protected].