Postdoc in “live” electron microscopy in catalysis at the atomic-scale - DTU Physics

Technical University of Denmark (DTU); Kongens Lyngby; Sur place; DKK 520 000 - 760 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

VISION at DTU Physics seeks a highly motivated researcher to advance operando, atomic-scale TEM studies of catalytic nanoparticles using the VISION PRIME instrument, in a collaborative, international team.

You will develop Python-based image and data analysis tools, visualize nanoparticle dynamics, link 3D structure to function, publish results at conferences, and help steer future research directions within VISION.

Qualifications

• Degree in physics, chemistry or materials science and documented atomic-resolution TEM skills.
• Experience with microfabricated devices, 2D materials, catalysis, or surface science.
• Strong skills in Python programming.
• Excellent academic record, problem-solving, and English communication skills.
• PhD degree (or equivalent) required.

Responsabilités

• Perform operando, low-dose-rate TEM to study catalytic dynamics.
• Advance ultrasensitive imaging and spectroscopy of gas–surface interactions.
• Fabricate and use microfabricated reactors for catalytic environments.
• Visualize and quantify nanoparticle restructuring and surface dynamics.
• Develop Python-based image/data analysis tools for large time-resolved TEM datasets.
• Establish links between 3D structure, dynamics and catalytic function of nanoparticles.
• Collaborate with computational researchers on mechanisms and kinetics.
• Contribute to publications and present results at conferences.
• Shape new research directions within the VISION environment.

Connaissances

atomic-resolution TEM

Python programming

problem-solving abilities

communication skills in English

independent and collaborative work

Formation

PhD or equivalent

Physics/Chemistry/Materials Science degree

Outils

Vision PRIME TEM

Computational modelling

Description du poste

Why join VISION?

At VISION, you will join a highly collaborative, international, and interdisciplinary research environment where advanced electron microscopy and spectroscopy, microfabricated reactors, catalysis, cluster science, and computational modelling come together to reveal how catalysts function at the atomic scale.

Your Impact

Catalysts are metastable nanomaterials. Their active surface sites dynamically restructure during adsorption and reaction of molecules. However, many of these processes remain hidden because they occur at the atomic scale and in real time.

Your research will address this challenge by using the new VISION PRIME electron microscope, a state-of-the-art instrument designed for operando and low-dose-rate atomic-resolution TEM studies. You will contribute to a deeper mechanistic understanding of catalytic processes and help guide the design of next-generation catalyst materials.

What You’ll Do

• Performing operando, low-dose-rate TEM to capture real-time atomic-scale catalyst dynamics
• Advancing ultrasensitive imaging and spectroscopy of gas–surface interactions, molecular adsorption, and active-site formation
• Fabricate and use microfabricated reactors for realistic catalytic environments
• Visualize, quantify and interpret nanoparticle restructuring, vibrations, and surface dynamics
• Develop and apply Python-based image/data analysis tools for large time-resolved TEM datasets
• Establish quantitative links between 3D atomic structure, dynamics and catalytic functions of single nanoparticles
• Collaborate with computational researchers to atomic-scale mechanisms, kinetics, and strategies for stabilizing active catalytic structures
• Contribute to high-impact scientific publications and present your results at international conferences.
• Take an active role in shaping new research directions within the VISION environment.

Qualifications

Your application must include a concise description of your research skills and experience.

We favor candidates with a degree in physics, chemistry or materials science. Candidates must have documented skills in atomic-resolution transmission electron microscopy. Candidates should also have documented experience in one or more of the following areas: microfabricated devices, 2D materials, catalysis and/or surface science. Strong skills in scientific programming, e. g. using Python, is expected.

Moreover, the candidate should have obtained an excellent academic track record, demonstrated outstanding problem-solving abilities, and good communication skills in both spoken and written English. Moreover, the candidates should also have proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an international top-research team on a relevant scientific question.

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent).

We offer

DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and terms of employment

The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. In addition, supplements can be negotiated in accordance with DTU’s salary structure for scientific staff: www.inside.dtu.dk/en/human-resources/during-employment/salary/salary-structures

It is a full-time position, and the period of employment is 2 years. The starting date is as soon as possible (or according to mutual agreement).

Further information

Further information may be obtained from Professor Christian D. Damsgaard (e‑mail: [e-mail]), Professor Joerg R. Jinschek (email: [e-mail]), Professor Stig Helveg (email: [e-mail]).

You can read more about VISION at www.vision.dtu.dk and DTU Physics at https://physics.dtu.dk/.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

The Center for Visualizing Catalytic Processes (VISION) is funded by the Danish National Research Foundation and located at DTU Physics. VISION has developed a new transmission electron microscope platform, VISION PRIME, for visualizing catalytic nanoparticles and reactions at the atomic-level and integrates with cutting-edge TEM methodologies, microfabricated nanoreactors, nanoparticle synthesis and computational modelling. This approach enables new, direct operando observations that are urgently needed to advance mechanistic insight into catalytic processes at the atomic-scale.

VISION’s activities are centered in DTU’s new "Climate Challenge Laboratory" building. The new laboratory hosts the VISION center, the Surface Physics and Catalysis section, the CatTheory section and the newly established Pioneer Center, CAPeX, as a vibrant collaborative research environment with internationally leading scientists in the fields of catalysis and power-to-X.

DTU – For the benefit of society since 1829. DTU is one of Europe's leading elite technical universities. Through research and education at an international top level, we create solutions to the major societal challenges of our time and help secure Europe's global leadership in sustainable technological development. Since Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU almost 200 years ago, our mission has remained the same: We develop and create value through the natural and technical sciences for the benefit of society. DTU has 13,800 students, 1,600 PhD students, and 6,500 employees. We work in an international environment and have an inclusive, stimulating, and informal work culture. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland and collaborates with the best universities around the world.