Themenbeschreibung
Conducting research for a changing society: This is what drives us at Forschungszentrum Jülich. As a member of the Helmholtz Association, we aim to tackle the grand societal challenges of our time and conduct research into the possibilities of a digitized society, a climate-friendly energy system, and a resource-efficient economy. Work together with around 7,400 employees in one of Europe’s biggest research centers and help us to shape change!
The Institute for Energy and Climate Research (IEK-14), Electrochemical Process Engineering at Forschungszentrum Jülich with more than 20 years of experience in electrochemical energy conversion, is at the forefront of innovative solutions for clean and sustainable energy conversion devices. In collaboration with national and international partners from research and industry, we develop solutions for mobile, portable, and stationary applications and research the use of liquid energy carriers as fuels as well as their efficient and environmentally friendly production and use. Water electrolysis, powered by renewable energy sources, is vital for supplying the growing demand for ‘green’ hydrogen (H2). Among the upcoming commercial electrolysis technologies available, alkaline exchange membrane (AEM) water electrolysis technology (AEMWE) is the most promising one due to its low footprint and compactness, simplicity, wide range of operation, and more.
We are offering a
Master Thesis – Functionalized Metal Oxides as Active Catalyst Support for Alkaline OER However, one of the main hurdles related to AEMWE technology is to develop low-cost and robust catalysts that can withstand the harsh reaction environment without compromising their activity. Despite that a typical AEM water electrolyzer operates with a standardized cathodic electrode for H2 production, there is great scientific interest in developing an efficient anodic electrode for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Currently, only a few materials can sustain the corrosive environment of alkaline OER, such as various platinum and d-group metals. This leaves great room for developing low-cost active catalyst materials for single-cell applications. The focus of this master’s thesis is on synthesizing novel catalyst materials of d-block metal oxides. The research will focus on developing novel nanocatalysts for the OER and examining their properties upon functionalization with various elements. The investigation of the properties of the new materials will be done through various analytical techniques. The investigation of the catalytic efficiency and robustness of the developed materials, for the OER will be done primarily in a three electrode system. Analysis of the catalyst layers using microscopy techniques will help us understand how the structure is formed. The research aspires to be extended to a single-cell AEM water electrolyzer.
Your tasks in detail:
Synthesis of novel nanomaterial of metal Oxides through wet-chemical techniques
Analysis of fabricated materials through various characterization techniques
Formulation of catalyst ink dispersion and electrode preparation
Electrochemical testing of the catalysts’ OER performance and durability
Undergraduate education with excellent marks in Material Science, Physics, Engineering, or Chemistry
Basic knowledge of electrochemistry and characterization techniques
Laboratory experience
Experience in the Origin program is beneficial
Willingness to learn and ability to think outside the box
Excellent cooperation, communication, and teamwork abilities
Collaborative working in multicultural and interdisciplinary team
Capable of working under pressure and with time limitations
Independent, self-motivated, and responsible
Fluency in English is mandatory
Fluency in German is advantageous
We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We support you in your work with:
An interesting, forward-looking, and socially relevant dissertation topic
Ideal conditions for gaining practical experience during your studies
Interdisciplinary collaboration on projects in an international, committed, and collegial team environment
Well-equipped laboratories in one of the largest research centers in Europe
State-of-the-art research
Fun and social working atmosphere
In addition to exciting tasks and a collaborative working atmosphere at Jülich, we have a lot more to offer: https://go.fzj.de/benefits.
We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, romantic orientation / identity, and social, ethnic, and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities, in which everyone can realize their potential, is important to us.
We look forward to receiving your application via the “Apply Now” Button.
The job will be advertised until the position has been successfully filled. You should therefore submit your application as soon as possible.
