PhD Position in Iron Oxide Catalysts, Electron Microscopy and Operando Analytics University of Bayreuth in Germany

University of Bayreuth is advertising a PhD Student (m/f/d) position within the Collaborative Research Center CRC 1487 “Iron upgraded”, hosted by the Chair of Operando-Analytics for Electrochemical Energy Storage. The project is centered on iron-based oxides and iron molybdate catalysts, with a strong focus on understanding real and working structures under ex situ and operando conditions.

The successful candidate will work in an interdisciplinary and international environment and contribute to subproject A08. Research tasks include multi-modal analytics, high-resolution TEM with EELS and EDX, PALS, PDF, operando SEM, and participation in synchrotron beamtimes for near ambient pressure X-ray spectroscopy such as at BESSY II. The project aims to provide in-depth structural insights into iron-based oxides for selective oxidation catalysis and broader sustainable catalyst research.

Eligibility highlights: an excellent Master’s degree in inorganic solid-state chemistry, physics, or materials science; strong skills in structural characterization of functional materials; hands-on experience with aberration-corrected TEM and/or SEM is desirable; experience in solid-state synthesis and heterogeneous catalysis is an advantage. Applicants should be highly motivated, team-oriented, able to learn new techniques quickly, and comfortable reading, writing, and presenting research in English.

Funding and duration: the position is for three years. The post does not specify a stipend amount, but it is a funded doctoral employment opportunity within the university/CRC framework and includes training opportunities, research-data-management qualifications, and possible stays abroad.

Application deadline: 28 June 2026. Apply online via the University of Bayreuth application portal and include the password “Iron Upgraded”. For questions, contact Prof. Dr. Thomas Lunkenbein at [email protected].