Postdoc (Physics) – Hydrocarbon Membranes for Sustainable Energy Conversion Applications Full-time NEW

Postdoc (Physics) – Hydrocarbon Membranes for Sustainable Energy Conversion Applications

The Jülich Centre for Neutron Science – Neutron Methods (JCNS-4) operates neutron scattering instruments at the Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Zentrum (MLZ) in Garching near Munich, providing access to state-of-the-art experimental facilities for scientists from universities and research institutions in Germany and worldwide. JCNS-4 actively conducts research on advanced materials for energy conversion technologies, particularly fuel cells, with a strong focus on the development and characterization of environmentally friendly proton- and anion-exchange membranes based on hydrocarbon polymers. These materials represent promising alternatives to the widely used perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) membranes, offering the potential to reduce environmental and health concerns associated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). A further key research objective is the development of dedicated experimental devices and sample environments enabling in-operando investigations of fuel cells using neutron scattering techniques, particularly small-angle neutron scattering (SANS). These capabilities aim to establish a deeper understanding of the relationships between membrane nanostructure, water distribution, ion transport, and fuel cell performance under realistic operating conditions. To strengthen these research activities, we are seeking a motivated and highly qualified scientist to join the Soft Matter Group at JCNS-4 and contribute to an exciting new research project.

Your Job

You will contribute to research and development activities focused on the fabrication, optimization, and multiscale characterization of proton-exchange membranes (PEMs) and anion-exchange membranes (AEMs) for fuel cell applications. Particular emphasis will be placed on investigating the relationships between membrane structure, molecular dynamics, ion transport, and electrochemical performance using advanced neutron scattering techniques, including in-operando fuel cell investigations.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Investigating the microstructure and molecular dynamics of novel semicrystalline polymer membranes functionalized through sulfonation or amination, under controlled conditions of hydration, temperature, and chemical composition, including doping and isotopic (deuterium) labeling
• Characterizing the macroscopic ion-transport properties of functionalized polymer membranes through ionic conductivity measurements under varying environmental and operating conditions
• Preparing and optimizing membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) using different membrane types and electrode materials for fuel cell testing, employing the experimental techniques and infrastructure available at JCNS-4
• Planning, execution, and evaluating small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) and quasielastic neutron scattering (QENS) experiments to investigate the nanoscale morphology, hydration behavior, and molecular dynamics of functionalized polymer membranes
• Participating in the commissioning, operation and user support at KWS-2 when necessary, and further development of SANS instruments and specialized electrochemical sample environments for neutron scattering experiments such as development and implementation of in-operando fuel cell testing capabilities at SANS instruments operated by JCNS-4 at the Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Zentrum (MLZ)
• Development and conducting experiments at national and international neutron and X-ray scattering facilities and participating in collaborative research activities with external scientific partners
• Scientific processing, analyzing, and interpreting neutron and X-ray scattering data, particularly SANS, SAXS, and QENS data, using established scientific software packages and independently developed computational tools
• Conducting high-quality, internationally competitive research and disseminating scientific results through peer-reviewed publications, conference contributions, and presentations

Your Profile

• A master's degree and subsequent PhD in physics or a closely related discipline, preferably with a focus on experimental condensed matter physics, soft matter, polymer physics, or neutron scattering
• A strong background in experimental research using neutron scattering techniques, particularly knowledge of and practical experience with small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) and quasielastic neutron scattering (QENS), preferably applied to functionalized polymer membranes, ion-conducting polymers, or related soft-matter systems
• Experience in electrochemical characterization, particularly ionic conductivity measurements, as well as familiarity with fuel cell operation and performance evaluation
• Experience in instrument commissioning at large-scale neutron research facilities and/or in the design, development, and implementation of sample environments for neutron scattering experiments
• Good programming skills, particularly in Python, and experience in scientific data processing, analysis, and interpretation
• An excellent command of written and spoken English with extensive vocabulary is required (at least B2 level according to the CEFR), including the ability to communicate scientific results effectively
• A proactive and creative approach to scientific problem-solving, combined with strong analytical skills, a results-oriented mindset, and excellent interpersonal and presentation skills
• The ability to work independently, take initiative, and contribute effectively to interdisciplinary research teams
• Strong motivation and aptitude for working in an international, multidisciplinary, and collaborative research environment, including cooperation with scientists, engineers, and external research partners

Our Benefits for You

• Meaningful tasks: The position represents an excellent opportunity to carry out research in advanced neutron and 3He polarization techniques and instrumentation within a multidisciplinary team at MLZ
• Attractive work environment: Exciting working environment on an attractive research campus, ideally situated close to the city of Munich
• Vacation: You will receive 30 days of vacation (depending on the chosen working time model) plus additional days off (e.g. between Christmas and New Year's)
• Flexibility: Flexible working time models in a full-time position (39 hours / week), including options close to full-time, allow you to tailor your working hours to suit your individual needs
• Knowledge & further training: Promoting professional development through participation in national and international conferences and through various training programs
• Fair remuneration: Depending on your existing qualifications and the tasks assigned to you, you will be classified in pay grade 14 of the TVöD-Bund (Collective Agreement for the Public Service). All information on the TVöD-Bund collective agreement can be found on the BMI website. The monthly salaries in euros can be found on page 74 of the PDF download
• Additional benefits: Benefit from attractive additional services such as a company pension scheme with employer contribution. 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
• Fixed Term: You will be initially employed for a fixed term of two years but with the prospect of longer-term employment
• Support for international employees: Our International Advisory Service makes it easier for international employees to get started
• Career Center: You will receive explicit support with regard to your career development opportunities

In addition to exciting tasks and a collegial working environment, we offer you much more: https://go.fzj.de/benefits

Place of employment: Garching (Munich)

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: https://go.fzj.de/equality and on specific support options for women: https://go.fzj.de/womens-job-journey. International applicants can find more information here: https://go.fzj.de/job-journey-internationals

Place of Employment: Garching (München) Start Date: To the next possible date Working Hours: 39 Hours / Week Salary: Pay Group 14 TVöD-Bund Application Deadline: The position will be published until it is successfully filled Index number: 2026T-0861