Postdoctoral Fellow in Atomic-scale Catalyst Synthesis and Process Engineering

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Postdoctoral Fellow in Atomic-scale Catalyst Synthesis and Process Engineering to join our dynamic and interdisciplinary research team. The successful candidate will systematically explore new designs and synthesis routes for supported atomic-scale catalysts with particular emphasis on single-atom catalysts. Their untapped potential primarily for molecular (gas) sensing will be tested. Other applications like energy storage or heterogeneous catalysis are envisioned.

Project background

Atomic-scale catalysts, particularly single-atom catalysts (SACs), represent a cutting-edge class of materials with properties fundamentally distinct from their nanoparticle counterparts. By isolating metal atoms on support materials (e.g. metal oxides, carbon nanomaterials) in a well-defined coordination environment, SACs offer unparalleled control over catalytic activity, selectivity, and stability. Their tunability, driven by precise manipulation of the support material and the local chemical environment, makes them particularly suited for applications ranging from gas sensing to catalytic reactions in energy and environmental processes.

This position focuses on the synthesis and characterization of SACs, with an emphasis on tailoring their coordination environments to enhance performance in gas sensing applications. Applicants are encouraged to explore any synthesis route and support material that enables precise control over SAC properties. Additionally, the catalytic potential of these materials will be evaluated for broader applications, providing a comprehensive understanding of their unique functionality and advantages over conventional catalysts.

Job description

• Design of synthetic pathways and site-specific coordination environments for SACs
• Systematic materials characterization of SACs using state-of-the-art analytic tools
• Aiding to establish process diagnostic tools to assess library of supports materials
• Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams, including material scientists, physical chemists and computational material modelers
• Prepare manuscripts, reports, and presentations to disseminate findings

Profile

Qualification

• PhD in chemical/process engineering, materials science, chemistry or closely related field
• Experience in nanomaterial synthesis and characterization
• Proficiency in X-ray absorption spectroscopy and data analysis
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills (Proficient in English)

Preferred Qualification

• Knowledge of solid-state thermodynamic modeling software or equilibrium calculation tools (e.g., Thermo-Calc, HSC Chemistry, GEMS)
• Experience with chemoresistive sensing
• Experience in operating high-resolution transmission electron microscopy
• Experience with catalytic characterization (chemisorption, reaction kinetics)
• Experience with in situ IR, UV-Vis and X-ray scattering is highly valued
• Experience with synchrotron time application and utilization is welcome

Workplace

Workplace

We offer

• Opportunities to engage with different communities bridging materials/chemical/mechanical and biomedical research leading to high impact publications
• You will be part of a highly motivated, multidisciplinary and collaborative team
• We will support your scientific career and application for postdoctoral fellowships on your path towards scientific leadership
• You will have flexibility to develop your own line of research within the framework of this project
• We encourage the attendance of relevant (inter-) national conferences to increase your visibility and present the project outcomes
• You will be involved in the supervision of junior researchers and teaching in the lab
• Access to state-of-the-art computational resources and collaborative research networks

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Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your application with the following documents:

Motivation letter (max 1 page)

Detailed CV

Transcripts of all degrees including ranking information (English)

Names and contact information of at least three references

Representative published research work (Papers, thesis if possible)

Please submit the application documents using only the ETH online portal in a single merged PDF document, titled with your last name and initials as well as the application date (for example, name_application). Do not send it by e-mail, LinkedIn etc.!

For more information on our group can be found on our website .

Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Andreas Güntner, by email at andregue@ethz.ch.

We evaluate applications on a rolling basis. 

Earliest possible starting date: May 1st, 2025.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.