PhD position (m/f/d) in anion-exchange membrane electrolysis

NEW

Part-time

Research and Instruction

The research group electrochemical energy systems (EES) is looking for: PhD position (m/f/d) in anion-exchange membrane electrolysis

Application deadline: 31. March 2026
Publication date: 9. March 2026
Start-date: 1. May 2026
Scope of work: Part-time position (80 %)
Id no.: 00004883

Description

Context

Anion exchange membrane (AEM) water electrolysis has the potential to combine the advantages of conventional alkaline electrolysis and acidic proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis, thereby significantly reducing the cost of hydrogen production.

By operating under alkaline conditions, AEM electrolysis can utilize cost-effective materials similar to those used in traditional alkaline electrolysis. At the same time, the use of a membrane enables high gas purity, compact system design, and high current densities comparable to PEM electrolysis.

However, particularly with regard to gas purity and long-term stability, AEMWE has not yet reached the performance level of established electrolysis technologies.

The overarching goal of the project is to realize efficient and stable AEM water electrolysis in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly manner on industrially relevant cell areas, while minimizing gas crossover.

Your Task

Design and develop high-performance, durable membrane–electrode assemblies (MEAs) with minimized gas crossover, utilizing the catalysts and ionomers developed within the project
Perform electrochemical characterization of MEAs under elevated-pressure operating conditions
Operation and maintenance of elevated-pressure test environment
Systematically analyze and interpret performance and stability data to drive material and structural optimization
Achieve the defined project milestones related to gas crossover, long-term stability, and electrochemical performance
Prepare scientific manuscripts, project reports, and presentations for internal and project meetings and international conferences
Contribute to teaching activities, including the supervision and instruction of students within the cleanroom course

Your profile

Master's studies in Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field
Strong background in electrochemistry, membrane science, or hydrogen technologies
Experience with water electrolysis systems or related electrochemical energy conversion technologies is highly desirable
Hands-on experience in experimental laboratory work
Excellent communication skills and team spirit
Strong interest in the development of novel systems for a sustainable society
Independent, target-oriented, and structured work style
Excellent written and spoken English skills

The position

Funded PhD position within a collaborative research project involving renowned industry partners
Excellent working conditions in the interdisciplinary “electrochemical energy systems”, characterized by a supportive, respectful, and collaborative atmosphere
Access to state-of-the-art infrastructure and cutting-edge equipment for electrolysis research and advanced materials development
A planned PhD duration of three years (80% TV-L 13, according to the German public service pay scale)
An international working environment with English or German as the working language
Ideal starting date: May 2026
Family-friendly workplace with flexible working hours

Required documents

For application, please upload a CV, letter of motivation and transcript of records in a single PDF. Further documents may be added at the end.

The position is limited to 30. April 2029. The salary will be determined in accordance with TV-L 13.

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

Application

Please send your application including supporting documents mentioned above citing the reference number 00004883, by 31. March 2026 at the latest. Please send your application to the following address in written or electronic form:

Georges-Koehler Allee 103
79110 Freiburg im Breisgau
Germany

For further information, please contact Carolin Klose on the phone number +49 761 216361703 or E-Mail carolin.klose@imtek.uni-freiburg.de.

Apply now

Full-time positions may generally be split up into two or more part-time positions, provided that there are no formal or legal barriers. Candidates are selected in accordance with the provisions of the AGG (Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz - German General Equal Treatment Act).
Applicants with disabilities (Schwerbehinderte Menschen) will be given preferential consideration in case of equal qualification.
The department offering the position is liable for the content of this job posting. Textual errors do not constitute a basis for any claims or rights. The relevant human resources department has sole responsibility for all legal transactions made within the context of the selection and hiring process.
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