Open PhD position in computational chemistry 80 %

Open PhD position in computational chemistry 80%

Application deadline: 06.05.2025

Department of Chemistry, University of Zurich, Switzerland

Start of employment: by agreement, temporary

A 4-year PhD student position is available in the Luber group at the Department of Chemistry, University of Zurich. Our group specializes in advanced computational methods at the intersection of chemistry, biology, physics, and materials science. For more details, please visit our group’s website.

Your responsibilities

The PhD project involves developing and applying innovative approaches to study functional catalytic compounds. Potential research directions include creating advanced dynamic methods for detailed analysis of reaction mechanisms and networks, considering environmental effects under catalytic conditions, utilizing enhanced sampling and machine learning techniques.

Our group has extensive experience in modeling reactions using DFT-MD, catalysis (e.g., water splitting), spectroscopy, excited states, and developing various methodologies within the CP2K software package.

The project may involve collaboration with experimental or other computational groups, such as within the NCCR Catalysis initiative.

Your profile

Applicants should hold an excellent Master’s degree in chemistry, interdisciplinary natural sciences, physics, or related fields, with proficiency in English and autonomous learning skills. The ideal candidate will be creative, ambitious, motivated, with strong programming skills, and knowledge in electronic structure theory, ab initio molecular dynamics, catalysis, and machine learning is advantageous.

Application details

Interested candidates should submit a single PDF containing a cover letter, CV, diplomas, research experience and motivation statement, and at least two academic references. The PDF may also include a one-page statement discussing one or two publications of the group, highlighting what interests the applicant and potential future research improvements.

What we offer

Work-Life Balance

• Flexible working models (part-time, remote work, job-sharing)
• Childcare facilities at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH
• Access to continuing education courses at UZH and Zurich Canton
• Language courses at the UZH Language Center (jointly with ETH Zurich)
• Discounted food and drinks at UZH cafeterias
• Special conditions for the Academic Sports Association ASVZ
• Free seasonal flu vaccinations
• Quiet room for rest and relaxation in the university tower
• Support for private transportation: car sharing, vehicle rentals, parking
• Digital resources: hardware, software, mobile subscriptions
• Special hotel reservation conditions