PhD Position (m/f/d): Advanced Characterization Methods for Fuel Cell Membranes

The Chair for Photovoltaic Energy Conversion at INATECH is looking for a highly motivated PhD candidate (m/f/d) to develop and apply new analysis methods for fuel cell membranes, with a focus on catalyst coated membranes (CCM). PhD Position (m/f/d): Advanced Characterization Methods for Fuel Cell Membranes

• Application deadline: 22. February 2026
• Publication date: 5. February 2026
• Start-date: At the earliest possible date.
• Scope of work: Part-time position (75 %)
• Id no.: 00004836

Description

We are looking for a highly motivated PhD candidate to develop and apply new analysis methods for fuel cell membranes, with a focus on catalyst coated membranes (CCM).

 

Your work will include:

• Development of innovative impulse thermography method for in situ and ex situ characterization
• Selection, development and optimization of optical measurement techniques such as laser scatterometry, hyperspectral imaging, ellipsometry, and polarimetry
• Advancement of additional optical methods (including spectroscopy and imaging techniques) for comprehensive membrane analysis
• Implementation of additional reference methods to validate and benchmark the new approaches
• Evaluation and processing of measurement data, including application of image analysis, point spread function analysis, and AI-based tools
• Programming work and scientific computing for data evaluation and method development
• Close collaboration with the research production line for CCMs and metrology experts at Fraunhofer ISE
• Joint work with strong European partners from academia and industry within collaborative projects

Your profile:

• University degree (Master or equivalent) in physics or engineering (e.g., electrical, mechanical, chemical, materials, or related field)
• Strong interest in experimental work as well as in the development of measurement techniques and analysis methods for energy and fuel cell technologies
• Experience in at least one of the following areas is an advantage:
• Optical measurement techniques (e.g., spectroscopy, imaging methods)
• Membrane or CCM manufacturing
• Evaluation and processing of measurement data (e.g., image analysis, AI-based tools, point spread function)
• Scientific computing, programming experience, or data analysis/processing
• Analysis and characterization of functional materials or membranes
• Team-oriented working style and strong communication skills in an international research environment
• Good command of English, both written and spoken

What we offer:

• The opportunity to work at the interface of fundamental research and industrial application
• Access to a state-of-the-art research production line for CCMs and advanced metrology infrastructure at Fraunhofer ISE
• Intensive collaboration with leading European research institutions and industrial partners

Start date: As soon as possible.

 

The position is limited to 31. December 2028. The salary will be determined in accordance with E13 TV-L.

We will be particularly pleased to receive applications from women for the position advertised here.

Application

Please send your application in English including supporting documents citing the reference number 00004836, by 22. February 2026 at the latest. Please send your application to the following address in written or electronic form:

University of Freiburg
Faculty of Engineering
INATECH - Chair of Photovoltaic Energy Conversion
Dr. Jonas Schön
Emmy-Noether-Str. 2
79110 Freiburg

For further information, please contact Dr. Jonas Schön on the phone number +49 761 203-54170 or E-Mail jonas.schoen@ise.fraunhofer.de.