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

ETH Zürich; 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

ETH Zürich invites applications for a funded PhD position in CO2 capture and critical element recovery. The research focuses on the atomic-scale structure-performance relationships in separation materials, funded by NCCR Separations.

Candidates are expected to have an excellent MSc degree in a relevant field, experience in materials synthesis, and a strong motivation for independent and team work. This interdisciplinary project offers a dynamic working environment and opportunities for career development.

Qualifikationen

• MSc degree in a relevant field with excellent academic performance.
• Experience in materials synthesis and characterization is a plus.
• Strong motivation and ability to work independently or in teams.

Aufgaben

• Conduct research on CO2 capture and critical element recovery.
• Utilize X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy and vibrational spectroscopy.
• Develop understanding of atomic structure's influence on material performance.

Kenntnisse

Materials synthesis and characterization

Team collaboration

Creativity

Independent research

Ausbildung

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

Jobbeschreibung

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. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate‑neutral future.