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source

University of Freiburg

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

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Country

Germany

University

University of Freiburg

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Keywords

Chemistry
Chemical Engineering
Materials Science
Catalysis
Electrochemistry
Material Characterization
Sustainable Energy
Atomic Layer Deposition
Fuel Cell
Physics

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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