PhD Position – Operando X-ray Characterization of Oxide Thin-Film Catalysts for Hydrogen Storage Full-time NEW

PhD Position – Operando X-ray Characterization of Oxide Thin-Film Catalysts for Hydrogen Storage

Would you like to actively shape the structural change in the Rhenish mining area together with us? With us you have the chance to join the Institute for a sustainable Hydrogen Economy (IHE) with your ideas right from the start. Together with the H2 demonstration region, the IHE forms the “Helmholtz Cluster for sustainable and Infrastructure-Compatible Hydrogen Economy” (HC-H2). Here, scientific foundations are laid in the field of innovative hydrogen technologies in order to advance research and development approaches with high sustainability potential and attractive economic prospects. At the institute division “Catalytic Interfaces for Chemical Hydrogen Storage” (IHE-1), led by Prof. Dr. Hans-Georg Steinrück, we investigate mechanisms and processes in (electro)chemical energy storage systems. For the purposes, we develop and use advanced (X-Ray-based) methods.

Your Job

• Development of epitaxial oxide thin films as structurally well-defined model catalysts for hydrogen storage reactions (e.g. LOHC hydrogenation–dehydrogenation)
• Growth of high-quality thin films (e.g. Ni-doped perovskites, TiO₂ anatase) using pulsed laser deposition (PLD)
• Design and investigation of metal-exsolution catalysts, including controlled nanoparticle formation, stability, and restructuring under reaction conditions
• Study of structure–function relationships in catalytic systems, linking surface structure, morphology, and defect chemistry to catalytic performance
• Investigation of adsorption geometries, reaction pathways, and catalyst dynamics under operando conditions
• Application of advanced X-ray and electron-based characterization techniques, including scattering, spectroscopy, and imaging methods (e.g. XRD, XRR, GISAXS/GIWAXS, XAS, XPS, XPEEM)
• Execution of in-situ and operando experiments to monitor nanoparticle evolution, metal–support interactions, and catalyst degradation mechanisms
• Correlation of structural and chemical changes with catalytic activity, selectivity, and stability during hydrogenation/dehydrogenation reactions
• Collaboration with internal research groups (IHE-1, PGI-7) and external partners (e.g. ESRF, PETRA III)
• Participation in synchrotron beamtimes and international collaborations
• Presentation of research results at international conferences and preparation of scientific publications

Your Profile

• Master's degree in physics, chemistry, materials science, or related discipline
• Strong interest in catalysis, hydrogen storage, and energy materials
• Background in at least one of the following areas:
  • Thin-film growth (e.g. PLD, epitaxy)
  • Surface science or catalysis
  • X-ray or electron-based characterization methods
• Basic knowledge of scattering, spectroscopy, or imaging techniques (experience with synchrotron methods is a plus)
• Interest in operando and in-situ experimental techniques
• Experience with data analysis and programming (e.g. Python) is advantageous
• Independent and structured working style combined with strong teamwork skills
• High motivation to work in an interdisciplinary and international research environment
• Fluent in written and spoken English
• Candidates who have not yet completed their Master's degree should please include a current transcript of records with their application

Our Benefits for You

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We support you in your work with:

• Team & Environment: You will work in a motivated team with an international and interdisciplinary focus – at one of the largest research institutions in Europe
• Research & Infrastructure: You will have access to excellent scientific and technical facilities for your work
• Networking & Exchange: You will participate in (international) conferences and project meetings and actively build your scientific network
• Supervision & Support: We will accompany your doctoral studies with continuous, expert guidance from your academic supervisor
• Work-life balance: We offer flexible working hours to help you balance your professional and personal life. You also have the option of flexible working (in terms of location), which is generally possible after consultation and in line with upcoming tasks and (on-site) appointments
• Annual Leave: You get 30 days of annual leave
• Knowledge & Development: Your professional development is important to us – we support you specifically and individually e.g., through training and networking opportunities specifically for doctoral candidates (JuDocS)
• Health & well-being: Your health is important to us. You can look forward to a comprehensive company health management programme with a wide range of options, including a beach volleyball court, running groups, yoga classes and much more. In addition, our company medical service and an experienced social counselling team are available to assist you on site
• Successful start: It is important to us that you quickly settle into the team and are given structured training for your tasks. We also support you from the very beginning and make your start easier with our Welcome Days and Welcome Guide
• Fair remuneration: Depending on your qualifications and assigned responsibilities, you will be classified according to pay group 13 (75%) of the TVöD-Bund. In addition to the basic salary, there is an additional year-end bonus under the collective pay agreement amounting to 75% of a monthly salary, as well as capital-forming benefits. All information about the TVöD-Bund collective agreement can be found on the BMI website (pay scale table on page 66 ff. of the PDF download)
• Fixed-term: The position is limited to 3 years
• Support for international employees: Our International Advisory Service makes it easier for international employees to get started

In addition to exciting tasks and a collegial working environment, we offer you much more.

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.

The following links provide further information on diversity and equal opportunities: and on specific support options:

Place of Employment: Brainergy Park Jülich Start Date: To the next possible date Salary: Pay group 13 (75%) TVöD-Bund Application Deadline: 2026-05-31