PhD Position: Spectro-electrochemical Electrode Surface Characterisation and Double Layer Modelling ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences in Switzerland

This fully funded PhD position at Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) is part of the prestigious European Marie Skłodowska-Curie doctoral training network “SPACER”, which brings together 21 partners and 17 doctoral candidates for collaborative research over 36 months. Hosted at ZHAW's School of Engineering and the Institute of Computational Physics (ICP), the project focuses on the spectro-electrochemical characterisation of electrode surfaces and advanced modelling of electrochemical double layers, with direct relevance to next-generation flow battery materials.

The successful candidate will join a dynamic, multidisciplinary team working at the interface of computational modelling and experimental electrochemistry. The research will involve developing physics-based, time- and position-dependent models of electrochemical double layers, integrating parameter estimation methods with data from cyclic voltammetry and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. This work aims to advance fundamental understanding of electrode-electrolyte interfaces, which are critical for energy storage technologies.

ZHAW is one of Switzerland’s largest universities of applied sciences, renowned for its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and innovation. The Institute of Computational Physics has a strong track record in multiphysics computer modelling for industrial applications, including hydrogen technology and photovoltaics. The PhD candidate will benefit from excellent working conditions, personal development opportunities, and a collaborative research environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities.

Applicants must hold an excellent master’s degree in computational science, physics, mathematics, chemical engineering, materials science, or a related discipline. Experience in mathematical modelling and numerical methods for differential equations is essential, as is proficiency in at least one scientific programming language (such as C/C++, Matlab, Fortran, Python, or Julia). Knowledge of spectroscopy is beneficial but not required. Candidates must have very good English language skills and comply with the MSCA mobility rules, which require that applicants have not resided or carried out their main activity in Switzerland for more than 12 months in the 36 months prior to recruitment.

The position is fully funded for 36 months by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie European Training Network (SPACER), including salary and employment benefits. The application deadline is January 27, 2026. Interested candidates should submit their application online via the provided link, including all required documents. For further information, contact Dr. Roman Schärer ([email protected]) or Jasmin Strobel ([email protected]).