PhD Scholarship – Semiconductors for Green Hydrogen Production Full-time

We invite applications for a PhD fellowship at the São Carlos Institute of Physics (IFSC–USP), University of São Paulo, Brazil, under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Renato Vitalino Gonçalves. The project is part of the Research Center for Molecular Engineering of Advanced Materials (CEMol) and focuses on the development of single and doped BiVO4-based semiconductor thin films for photoelectrochemical water splitting. The selected PhD candidate will work on the deposition of BiVO4-based photoanodes, including dopants elements, and on the optimization of photoelectrochemical performance and stability for hydrogen production under solar illumination. The project involves advanced materials synthesis and characterization using techniques such as XPS, XRD, Raman, UV–Vis, and photoelectrochemical (PEC) measurements at the NaCA laboratory (IFSC–USP).

Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Materials Science, or related fields, and with an interest in renewable energy, thin films, and nanomaterials, are encouraged to apply.

Fellowship funded by FAPESP (São Paulo Research Foundation).

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Materials Science, or related fields.
• Experience (not mandatory) in semiconductor materials, photoelectrochemistry, or advanced characterization techniques (XPS, Raman, XRD, UV–Vis).
• Experience (not mandatory) in electrical and photoelectrochemical measurements such as LSV, EIS, and IPCE.
• Proficiency in English (scientific reading and writing).
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team and integrate different types of data.
• This opportunity is intended exclusively for direct PhD candidates; therefore, applicants holding a master’s degree will not be considered.

Duration and Location

The project will last up to four years, with activities primarily carried out at the São Carlos Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo (São Carlos, Brazil). The fellow will also benefit from the infrastructure and collaborations of the National Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM) in Campinas, SP, through its association with CEMol, a FAPESP Research, Innovation and Dissemination Center (CEPID).

Supervisor

Prof. Dr. Renato Vitalino Gonçalves, São Carlos Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo/Brazil.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should send the following documents to the application email:

• Motivation letter highlighting previous experience relevant to the project (maximum 2 pages);
• Curriculum vitae (CV), including links to the Lattes CV (for Brazilian applicants) and other academic profiles.

Selection Process

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online interview in February–March 2026.

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