PhD Position in Synthesis and Atomic-Scale Characterization of High Entropy Alloy Nanoparticles for Electrocatalysis Ruhr University Bochum in Germany

Ruhr University Bochum is advertising a three-year PhD position in synthesis and atomic-scale characterization of high entropy alloy (HEA) nanoparticles for electrocatalysis. The project is hosted by the Chair of Atomic-scale Characterisation in the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and is supervised by Prof. Dr. Tong Li.

The research focuses on understanding how HEA nanoparticle composition, structure, and surface chemistry control catalytic activity and stability in water electrocatalysis and fuel cell applications, including the hydrogen evolution reaction, oxygen evolution reaction, and oxygen reduction reaction. The successful candidate will synthesize HEA nanoparticles and study them using advanced characterization methods such as atom probe tomography, aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray photoemission spectroscopy.

The position is full-time and salaried at E13 TV-L (100%). It is a fixed-term appointment for 3 years. The post is based at Ruhr University Bochum and offers access to major microscopy platforms, glove boxes, and the research center for interface-dominated high-performance materials (ZGH).

Applicants should hold an excellent master’s degree in materials science, inorganic chemistry, nanoparticle synthesis, or electrochemistry. Experience with HEA nanoparticle synthesis, electrochemical measurements, and techniques such as cyclic voltammetry, impedance spectroscopy, chronopotentiometry, and chronoamperometry is preferred. Strong English skills are required, and competence in at least one of German or English plus willingness to learn the other is also expected.

Application deadline: 2026-07-12. Apply via the university online portal and submit a complete application as a single PDF including cover letter, CV, and certificates. Please mention reference number ANR 5778.