PhD Student Position in Chemistry: Development of High-Efficiency CuBi₂O₄-Based Photocathodes for Hydrogen Evolution Center for Physical Sciences and Technology in Lithuania

The Center for Physical Sciences and Technology (FTMC) in Vilnius, Lithuania, invites applications for a fully funded PhD student position in Chemistry, focusing on the development of high-efficiency CuBi₂O₄-based photocathodes for hydrogen evolution. FTMC is the largest scientific research institution in Lithuania, renowned for its multidisciplinary research in laser technologies, photonics, materials science, chemistry, electronics, nuclear physics, and nanotechnologies. The Department of Electrochemical Material Science offers a vibrant research environment, combining fundamental science with applied research and industry collaboration.

This PhD project addresses a central challenge in solar hydrogen production: the development of efficient and stable photocatalysts composed of earth-abundant elements. Copper oxides are promising visible-light absorbers with suitable electronic properties for hydrogen evolution, but their application is limited by fast charge recombination and photocorrosion. Mixed copper–bismuth oxides, particularly CuBi₂O₄, offer an underexplored opportunity to overcome these limitations. The research will focus on CuBi₂O₄, a narrow-band-gap copper–bismuth oxide, aiming to enhance its photocatalytic performance through targeted control of crystal chemistry, interfacial charge separation, and surface stability.

The project objectives include: (i) establishing the fundamental electronic structure, band alignment, and charge-carrier dynamics of CuBi₂O₄; (ii) identifying and quantifying photocorrosion and degradation pathways under illumination; and (iii) engineering heterojunctions and protective surface layers to enable stable visible-light-driven hydrogen evolution. The research will employ controlled synthesis techniques such as electrochemical deposition, magnetron sputtering, and spin coating, alongside advanced structural and surface characterization, and photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical testing.

Successful candidates will join the Material Science and Corrosion Laboratory under the supervision of Dr. Putinas Kalinauskas, senior researcher. The department specializes in the development and application of electrochemical technologies and investigation methods for the fabrication and characterization of new functional materials.

Funding is provided through a state-funded doctoral stipend: Year 1 – 1406 EUR/month; Years 2–4 – 1628 EUR/month. Additional funding opportunities may be available through research projects and international collaborations. Doctoral students benefit from access to modern laboratories, advanced scientific infrastructure, international research networks, and opportunities to present research at international conferences. FTMC encourages participation in international mobility and research internships.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field, preferably with knowledge in electrochemistry and photoelectrochemistry. Practical experience in chemistry, electrochemistry, and general physics labs is desirable. Excellent command of English is required. Candidates should demonstrate strong motivation for scientific research and the ability to work independently and in a team. Required documents include application form, CV, Master’s diploma and supplement, reference letters (including one from the potential supervisor), list of publications (if available), copy of identity document, and other relevant documents (optional).

The application deadline is 5 June 2026. Doctoral studies start in October 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a motivational interview with the doctoral admission committee. The final admission score is based on Master’s degree grade average, motivation interview evaluation, and scientific experience/publications.

For further details and to apply, visit the FTMC PhD admission portal: https://www.ftmc.lt/phd-admission-and-2026-research-topics/. To receive a recommendation from the potential supervisor, contact Dr. Putinas Kalinauskas at [email protected].