University of Freiburg
2 months ago
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PhD in Electrode/Catalyst Development for PFAS-Free Fuel Cells University of Freiburg in Germany
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Chemistry
Funding
Funded PhD position in a collaborative research project. Planned duration is three years at 80% TV-L E13 according to the German public service pay scale.
Deadline
Aug 31, 2026
Country
Germany
University
University of Freiburg

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About this position
PhD position at the University of Freiburg in the group Electrochemical Energy Systems for electrode/catalyst development for PFAS-free fuel cells.
The project focuses on PFAS-free / hydrocarbon ionomer fuel cell electrodes and the design of platinum catalysts using atomic layer deposition (ALD). Research topics include catalyst structure and morphology, porous carbon supports, over- and under-coatings, catalyst-ionomer composite electrodes, and fuel cell device integration.
Students will work with techniques such as TEM/SEM, XRD, BET, cyclic voltammetry, ECSA measurements, and fuel cell testing. The role also involves systematic study of ionomer-to-carbon ratios, gas diffusion, water uptake, and performance-limiting mechanisms in collaboration with project partners.
This is a funded PhD position with a planned duration of three years at 80% TV-L E13. The working language is English or German, and the environment is interdisciplinary and international.
Eligibility highlights: Master’s degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field; strong interest or background in electrochemistry, catalysis, materials characterization, and thin-film deposition. Experience with fuel cells, ALD/CVD/sputtering, and scientific writing is advantageous.
Deadline: August 31, 2026. Start date: as soon as possible, ideally October/November 2026.
Funding details
Funded PhD position in a collaborative research project. Planned duration is three years at 80% TV-L E13 according to the German public service pay scale.
What's required
Master's degree or equivalent in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field. Strong background in electrochemistry, materials characterization, or catalysis is expected; experience with fuel cells or related electrochemical energy conversion systems is a plus. Hands-on experimental laboratory experience, especially with thin-film deposition techniques such as ALD, CVD, or sputtering, is highly desirable or a strong motivation to learn is needed. Familiarity with TEM/SEM, XRD, BET, and electrochemical methods such as cyclic voltammetry and polarization curves is beneficial. Good written and spoken English is required; German is a plus but not required.
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