PHD position on Atomic-Scale Structure-Function Relationships in Separation Materials for Susta[...]

Immigration Policy Lab; Zürich; Vor Ort; CHF 50.000 - 65.000; Vollzeit

Benefits dieser Stelle

Exciting working environment

Opportunities to learn cutting-edge techniques

Career development perspectives

Diverse and interdisciplinary team

Zusammenfassung

The Immigration Policy Lab is offering a PhD position at ETH Zürich focusing on atomic-scale structure-performance relationships in materials for sustainable processes. This role involves synthesizing materials and advanced spectroscopic techniques to contribute to CO₂ capture and valuable elements recovery.

Candidates should have an excellent MSc degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related fields, with a strong emphasis on creativity and independent work. This opportunity offers a supportive environment for career development within a diverse team.

Qualifikationen

• Excellent MSc degree in relevant field.
• Experience in materials synthesis and characterization is advantageous.
• Strong motivation and independence required.

Aufgaben

• Conduct research in CO₂ capture and material recovery.
• Synthesize model materials and perform spectroscopic characterization.
• Work in an interdisciplinary team environment.

Kenntnisse

Materials synthesis

Spectroscopic characterization

Teamwork

Creativity

Independence

Ausbildung

Excellent MSc degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or Chemistry

Jobbeschreibung

PHD position on Atomic-Scale Structure–Function Relationships in Separation Materials for Sustainable Processes

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Laboratory of Energy Science and Engineering (LESE, ETH Zürich) invites applications for a PhD position in the field of CO₂ capture and critical element recovery, with a focus on atomic-scale structure–performance relationships in separation materials. This PhD position is funded by the National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) Separations, and is carried out under the co-supervision of Dr. Paula Abdala and Prof. Christoph R. Müller.

Project background

The aim of this project is to establish a fundamental understanding of how atomic structure governs selectivity, capacity, and stability in materials for CO₂ capture and for the recovery of valuable elements such as lithium and cobalt from complex waste streams. These applications are key to enabling sustainable carbon management and circular resource use.

Job description

• The research combines the synthesis of model materials with advanced structural and spectroscopic characterization, with a strong emphasis on X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS), X-ray total scattering with pair distribution function analysis, and vibrational spectroscopy.
• These techniques will be used to probe local coordination environments, electronic structure, and structural dynamics under working conditions.
• The project is embedded in a highly interdisciplinary environment, linking experimental materials chemistry with computational screening and process modelling.
• The overarching goal is to connect atomic-scale mechanisms directly to their separation performance and to derive rational design principles for improved materials.

Profile

• Excellent MSc degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, or related field.
• Experience in materials synthesis and characterization is an advantage.
• Strong motivation, creativity, and ability to work independently and in teams.
• Interest in atomic-scale mechanisms in separation materials.
• High degree of independence and self‑organization.
• Willingness to work in an interdisciplinary and evolving research project.
• Flexibility for intensive experimental campaigns, including synchrotron beamtime.

We offer

• An exciting working environment.
• Opportunities to learn cutting edge techniques.
• Perspectives for career development.
• A diverse and interdisciplinary team.

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate‑neutral future.