PhD position electrochemical synthesis of ammonia in ceramic membrane reactors

In the Engineering and Technology Institute Groningen (ENTEG), we are looking for a talented and motivated PhD student for the development and evaluation of (electro) catalysts for electrochemical ammonia synthesis from sustainable sources in ceramic electrochemical reactors.

Faculty of Science and Engineering

PhD position on electrochemical synthesis of ammonia in ceramic membrane reactors

Ammonia is not only a key-chemical for sustaining global population, but also an intriguing carbon-free energy carrier. Ammonia, however, is the most energy intensive commodity chemical, responsible for 1-2% of energy consumption and CO2 emissions worldwide. The PhD project will support the efforts for creating innovative electrochemical membrane reactors that produce sustainable ammonia at high efficiency for decentralized applications. The PhD research will be part of the 20.3 Meuros HyNITROGEN project ((Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).)

of the National Growthfund GroenvermogenNL. This unique consortium brings together more than 40 companies, universities and research institutes, covering the entire value chain.

• Synthesis and characterization of electrocatalysts at intermediate and high temperatures.
• Fabrication of single cells with targeted characteristics.
• Characterization of materials and relevant interfaces for their role in the reaction mechanisms.
• Preparation of scientific articles and conference communications.
• Teaching activities (10% of total workload), including assistance to courses, as well as supervision of Bachelor and Master students.
• Contribution to the scientific and collaborative research environment in Chemical Engineering group and the ENTEG institute.

Faculty of Science and Engineering

• A Master’s degree (or an equivalent university degree) in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, or related discipline.
• We are looking for a talented, motivated and enthusiastic researcher. Analytical skills, initiative and creativity are highly desired.
• You are a naturally curious person who is eager to learn more and has a strong interest in research.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English are a prerequisite.
• We prefer candidates with a good team spirit, who like to work in an internationally oriented, social environment.

• In accordance with the collective labor agreement for Dutch universities, we offer a salary of at least € 3.204up to a maximum of € 4.051 (promovendus) gross per month for a full-time employment contract.
• 232 vacation hours per year, based on a 38-hour workweek (1.0 FTE). You can also work more or fewer hours in exchange for more or fewer free hours. For example, with a 40-hour workweek, you save 96 extra free hours, and with a 36-hour workweek, you lose 96 hours.
• End-of-year bonus of 8.3% and 8% holiday allowance.
• Extensive opportunities for personal and professional development.
• First, you will get a temporary position of one year with the option of renewal for another three years; prolongation of the contract is contingent on sufficient progress in the first year to indicate that successful completion of the PhD thesis within the contract period is to be expected. A PhD training program is part of the agreement and you will be enrolled in the Graduate School of the Faculty of Science and Engineering.

At the University of Groningen (UG), researchers from all fields of academia and technology are working on academic challenges and societal questions. Lecturers prepare their students for meaningful careers within or outside the academic world. Interdisciplinary research and…