Ulf-Peter Apfel

Ruhr University Bochum is advertising two PhD positions in electrochemistry focused on CO2 electrolysis and CO2 reduction . The openings are in the Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry, within the group Technical Electrochemistry / Activation of Small Molecules , and are closely connected to the energy transition, green chemistry, and next-generation CO2 conversion technologies. Position 1: PhD in Technical Electrochemistry centers on advancing electrochemical CO2 reduction to methanol. The successful candidate will independently plan, conduct, and evaluate experiments in state-of-the-art electrochemical cell systems, analyze data, and contribute to cell and process development. The role is part-time, fixed-term for 36 months, and salaried at TV-L E13 if requirements are met. Position 2: PhD in Industrial Electrochemistry (RESOLV) focuses on developing high-performance membrane electrode assemblies for CO2 electrolysis within the Cluster of Excellence RESOLV. This project includes electrode fabrication, optimization of catalyst-coated electrodes, electrochemical testing, and spectroscopic investigations under operating conditions. It is also a part-time, fixed-term 36-month PhD position with TV-L E13 pay conditions if applicable. Eligibility highlights include a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field, excellent academic results, and strong practical experience in electrochemistry. Preferred skills include cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry, impedance spectroscopy, zero-gap flow cell operation, catalyst synthesis and characterization, catalyst ink formulation, electrode preparation, and advanced analytical/spectroscopic methods. Strong English communication skills are required; German or English competence plus willingness to learn the other language is also expected. Application deadline: 2026-04-27 for both positions. Applicants should apply via the Ruhr University Bochum online portal and mention the relevant reference number: ANR 5551 for Technical Electrochemistry and ANR 5550 for Industrial Electrochemistry. Supervisors/contact persons: Prof. Dr. Ulf-Peter Apfel and Dr. Julian Kleinhaus are listed as contact persons for further information. The post also references the Cluster of Excellence RESOLV and collaboration with industrial partners and research institutions.

Ruhr University Bochum is advertising a fully funded PhD position in Industrial Electrochemistry within the Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry, focused on CO₂ electroreduction , membrane electrode assemblies (MEA) , catalyst and electrode development, and advanced spectroscopy/data analysis. The project sits in an interdisciplinary environment connected to the Cluster of Excellence RESOLV and aims to contribute to the energy transition and climate protection. The research topic is highly relevant for students interested in chemistry , materials science , and electrochemistry , especially those with experience in electrochemical characterization, zero-gap flow cells, catalyst ink formulation, electrode preparation, and spectroscopic methods. The successful candidate will independently plan and run experiments, fabricate and optimize electrodes, operate electrochemical test systems, analyze data, and contribute to cell and process development. Funding: The position is salaried under TV-L E13 and is described as fully funded for a duration of 36 months (3 years), with part-time employment at 67%. The post is based in Bochum, Germany, and offers access to state-of-the-art laboratories, industrial collaboration, and international networking opportunities. Eligibility highlights: Applicants should hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field, with excellent academic results. Strong English communication skills are required, and competence in at least one of German or English is necessary, with willingness to learn the other. The role is suited to candidates who are collaborative, open-minded, and able to work independently in an interdisciplinary team. Application window: Apply by 2026-04-27 via the university’s online portal and mention reference number ANR 5550 . Contact persons listed in the post are Prof. Dr. Ulf-Peter Apfel and Dr. Julian Kleinhaus.