PhD in Materials Chemistry

University of Southern Denmark; Sønderborg; On-site; DKK 377,000 - 451,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Southern Denmark in Sønderborg invites applications for a PhD student position in Materials Chemistry. The successful candidate will work at the Mads Clausen Institute (MCI) on solid-state synthesis, crystal structure analysis, and materials performance for solar water splitting, with supervision and collaboration across industry partners.

The three-year contract begins March 1, 2027, or as soon as possible.

Qualifications

• MSc degree in Materials Science or related field.
• Hands-on experience with solid-state synthesis methods.
• Skills in materials characterization (XRD, XPS, SEM).
• Fluency in English (spoken and written).
• Ability to work in teams and independently.

Responsibilities

• Implement research tasks related to the project.
• Plan and conduct materials synthesis and characterization, including crystal structure analysis.
• Analyze data and interpret results.
• Present research at group seminars and conferences.
• Write and publish results in international journals.

Skills

Solid State Chemistry

Crystal Structure Analysis

Materials Synthesis

XRD

XPS

SEM

Teamwork

Education

MSc in Materials Science or related field

Tools

XRD

XPS

SEM

Job description

We are seeking an enthusiastic new colleague as a PhD student in the field of Materials Chemistry with a strong background, particularly in Solid State Chemistry and Crystal Structure Analysis, and interest in industrial applications and cooperation to join the Mads Clausen Institute (MCI) at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) in Sønderborg, Denmark. The position is for three years with a preferred starting date of March 1, 2027, or as soon as possible. MCI is a part of the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) and covers research and education, including applications of engineering sciences. Our working language is English, reflecting the fact that far more than half of our students and staff are international. We are located at SDU’s beautiful campus in Sønderborg, in the inspiring building of Alsion, which is a centre for science, culture, and learning in the heart of Sønderborg and perched on the strait of water separating the island of Als from the mainland. The university has very close relations with industries in Sønderborg, Southern Denmark, and Northern Germany.

Job Description and Responsibilities

• Implementation of research tasks related to the project
• Collaborative and independent research planning, materials synthesis and characterization, crystal structure analysis, and performance evaluation of materials in solar water splitting
• Independent characterization, data analysis, and interpretation of research results
• Scientific communication and presentation of research results at group seminars, scientific conferences, project meetings, etc.
• Writing and publishing of project results in international high-impact scientific journals

Additional Responsibilities (may be requested)

• Supervision of BSc, MSc, and exchange/visiting students who perform research work on similar research topics
• Assistance in teaching activities
• Assistance in the preparation of grant proposals for external funding
• Assistance in laboratory organization and management

Qualifications (as required)

• MSc degree in Materials Science, Materials Chemistry, Solid State Chemistry, Solid State Physics, or related fields
• Proven hands-on experience and knowledge of various synthesis methods in solid-state chemistry, preferably the methods used for the synthesis of mixed-anion compounds
• Technical skills in materials characterization techniques (e.g., XRD, XPS, SEM, etc.)
• Technical skills in crystal structure analysis
• Fluency in English (both spoken and written)
• Ability to work both in teams and independently
• Strong communication and social skills
• Willingness to collaborate with other scientists and industry

Qualifications (as assets)

• Research experience in X-ray, synchrotron, and neutron radiation facilities
• Research experience in solid state chemistry and crystal structure analysis
• A track record of experience in writing scientific publications
• Technical skills in scientific illustration and animation to deliver visual knowledge of the project
• Proven record in participating in national and international research projects and programs
• Strong interest in a long-term commitment to a growing research group

Appointment as a PhD fellow is a 3-year salaried position, and the monthly gross salary incl. pension is 37.075 DKK. If you have relevant postgraduate experience, you may be placed on a higher salary step. Applicants must hold a master’s degree (equivalent to a Danish master’s degree) at the time of enrollment and employment. Employment is contingent on enrollment approved by the PhD School. Employment will be in accordance with the collective agreement between the Ministry of Finance and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations for academics in the state including the associated circular on the job structure for academic staff at Danish universities and the provisions for PhD fellows as described therein as well as the Protocol on PhD fellows signed by the Danish Ministry of Finance and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations (AC). Salary is determined in accordance with the applicable collective agreement and based on objective and gender-neutral criteria, including the content of the position, responsibilities, and qualification requirements. As an applicant, you are entitled to information about the starting salary and salary range for the position. This information will be provided during the recruitment process. SDU does not collect information on applicants’ previous salary. Further information on salary and taxation.

The University of Southern Denmark wishes its staff to reflect the surrounding community and therefore encourages everyone, regardless of personal background, to apply for the position. SDU conducts research in critical technologies, which, due to the risk of unwanted knowledge transfer, is subject to a number of security measures. Therefore, based on information from open sources, background checks may be conducted on candidates for the position(s). Further information for international applicants about entering and working in Denmark. You may also visit WorkinDenmark for additional information. Further information about The Faculty of Engineering.

Further information is available from Prof. Mirabbos Hojamberdiev ([e-mail]; Tel: [phone]) or the Head of the Institute, Prof. Dr. Horst-Günter Rubahn ([e-mail]).