Doktorand (m/w/d)

Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena; Jena; On-site; EUR 42,000 - 54,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Remuneration TV-L E13

Continuing education

Interdisciplinary research environment

Job summary

Friedrich Schiller University Jena invites applications for a part-time Research Associate in Theoretical Chemistry / Computational Materials Modelling. The role focuses on quantum-chemical modelling and machine learning within a DFG-funded project on proton conductivity in solid electrolytes for ammonia synthesis.

It offers a fixed-term contract of three years and collaboration with established groups. The successful candidate will conduct quantum-chemical analyses, contribute to method

Qualifications

• Master-level degree in chemistry, physics, or materials science.
• Strong background in theoretical/quantum chemistry or materials modelling.
• Experience with Linux and HPC facilities.
• Knowledge of ab initio MD and ML is desirable.
• Good English and willingness to international collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Conduct quantum-chemical calculations for ammonia synthesis and solid proton conductors.
• Characterize and analyze geometric and electronic structures.
• Perform mechanistic studies of electrochemical ammonia synthesis.
• Elucidate structures of solid proton conductors and proton transport.
• Study catalyst-membrane interfaces in simulations.
• Apply DFT, semi-empirical methods, MD, and ML.
• Document, evaluate, and publish results.
• Pursue doctoral qualification through academic project.

Skills

Theoretical chemistry

Quantum chemistry

Materials modelling

English proficiency

Machine learning

Ab initio MD

HPC

Education

Master’s degree in chemistry/physics/materials science

Tools

Linux

High-performance computing

Job description

The Friedrich Schiller University Jena is a dynamic and innovation-driven university centrally located in Germany. With a broad range of disciplines, it shapes the future through excellent research and teaching. Its scientific excellence is reflected in the profile areas Light - Life - Liberty, which provide pioneering insights and sustainable solutions for the society of tomorrow. Through close collaborations with leading research institutions, innovative companies, and renowned cultural organizations, it advances interdisciplinary developments. With around 17,000 students and approximately 10,000 employees, it defines Jena as a vibrant, internationally connected city of science and innovation.

At the Institute of Technical Chemistry and Environmental Chemistry, a position is available in the working group of Prof. Doreen Mollenhauer at the earliest possible date as a

Research Associate in Theoretical Chemistry / Computational Materials Modelling

to be filled on a part-time basis (67%, 26,8 hours per week) for a fixed term position of three years.

The group established at the Institute of Technical Chemistry and Environmental Chemistry specializes in theoretical chemistry and computational materials modelling. The DFG-funded project associated with this position, “Proton Conductivity in Solid Electrolytes for Advanced Low-Temperature Electrochemical Ammonia Synthesis”, aims to advance sustainable ammonia production by developing a flexible electrochemical platform for nitrogen fixation at moderate temperatures. The project combines materials development, cell engineering, and theoretical modelling to create a scalable and robust process that overcomes the current limitations of ammonia synthesis. The project is part of the Priority Programme SPP 2370 “Nitroconversion”. Close collaboration will take place with the experimental research groups of Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Zeier and Dr. Daniel Siegmund. The advertised position will focus on the theoretical modelling component of the project.

Responsibilities

• Conducting quantum-chemical calculations related to ammonia synthesis and solid proton conductors
• Characterization and analysis of geometric and electronic structures
• mechanistic studies of the electrochemical ammonia synthesis
• Elucidation of the structure of the solid proton conductor and description of proton transport
• Interface studies: catalyst-membrane interactions
• Methods applied include density functional theory, semi-empirical methods, molecular dynamics simulations, and machine learning
• Documentation, evaluation, and subsequent publication of the results
• Creative work on an academic qualification project with the aim of obtaining a doctoral degree

Requirements

• Successfully completed university degree, preferably at Master’s level or equivalent, in chemistry, physics, or materials science
• Extensive knowledge in the field of theoretical chemistry / quantum chemistry or materials modelling
• Experience in solid-state and surface modelling as well as in working with Linux systems and high-performance computing facilities is ideally available
• Experience in ab initio molecular dynamics simulations and machine learning is desirable
• Very good command of English, willingness to engage in international collaboration, excellent communication skills, and an interest in interdisciplinary research questions

Benefits

• Varied fields of activity and independent work at one of Thuringia’s largest employers
• Integration into a dynamic and collegial research environment
• Remuneration in accordance with the provisions of the collective agreement for the public service of the federal states (TV-L), depending on personal qualifications, up to salary group E13
• Participation in diverse theoretical research with an interdisciplinary character
• The opportunity to help shape forward-looking developments at a modern university with a rich tradition
• A comprehensive further and continuing education programme as well as individual qualification and development opportu...