PhD Position – Self-driving Lab specialising in the Automated Development of Electrochemical Catalyst Inks and Coatings Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH in Germany

Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, a leading interdisciplinary research institution in Europe and a member of the Helmholtz Association, is offering a PhD position in the Self-driving Lab specialising in the Automated Development of Electrochemical Catalyst Inks and Coatings. The position is based at the Helmholtz-Institute Erlangen-Nürnberg for Renewable Energies (HI ERN), which collaborates closely with Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB). HI ERN focuses on innovative materials and processes for hydrogen technologies and photovoltaic energy, addressing novel approaches for CO2-neutral energy conversion and storage.

The PhD project operates at the intersection of electrochemistry, robotics, and data-driven research. The main goal is to utilise and further develop an automated laboratory environment to optimise catalyst inks and functional coatings for future energy applications, such as high-performance fuel cells and electrolysers. The research involves high-throughput experiments for the production, characterisation, and optimisation of inks and coatings, applying and improving automated workflows linked with data-driven evaluation strategies. The platform under development combines materials development, process optimisation, and machine learning, in close collaboration with chemists, engineers, and data scientists.

Key research topics include:

• Development and optimisation of catalyst inks from commercial and novel materials for electrochemical applications
• (Semi-)automated production and characterisation of inks, interfaces, and functional layers
• Establishment of robust characterisation workflows linking ink formulation, layer structure, and electrochemical parameters
• Benchmarking state-of-the-art materials as a basis for the developed system
• Operation and further development of an automated system for catalyst inks and layers
• Development of innovative characterisation techniques for electrocatalytic reactions
• Collaboration with data scientists and automation specialists to develop rapid material testing methods
• Structured collection and linking of experimental data for machine learning and self-driving lab approaches

Applicants should have a first-class Master's degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Process Engineering, or a related field. A strong interest in electrochemical systems and applied automation, affinity for programming, and experience in automation, data processing, prototyping, device/interface communication, and databases are desirable. Additional experience in electrocatalysis, rheology, coating technology, machine learning, and interfacial physics is beneficial but not essential. Candidates must demonstrate self-motivation, initiative, creativity, independence, excellent collaboration and communication skills, and high motivation to obtain a PhD within 3 years. Proficiency in English (at least B2 CEFR, ideally certified) is required; business-fluent German skills are advantageous.

The position offers fair remuneration according to pay group 13 (75%) of the TVöD Bund for 3 years, access to excellent scientific and technical facilities, flexible working hours, support for international employees, and professional development opportunities. The institution values diversity and inclusion, providing equal opportunities and support for all employees.

Applications are accepted online until the position is filled. Please use the provided application link and do not send applications by email. For further information on benefits, diversity, and support options, visit the institution's website.