The Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society for the Advancement of Science () is one of the most internationally renowned research institutes. More than 400 employees in 5 scientific departments conduct and facilitate top-level research on historic grounds in Berlin-Dahlem, which is unique worldwide.

We currently offer a

Scientist (PostDoc) Position (f/m/d): X-ray Spectroscopic Measurements on Active Catalyst Surfaces in Gas Phases and Liquids

The Department of Interface Science () headed by Prof. Beatriz Roldán Cuenya at the Fritz Haber Institute carries out cutting-edge research on advanced functional materials with applications in heterogeneous catalysis, energy conversion and electrochemistry. By combining unique synthesis methods, state-of-the art tools for experimental characterization and advanced approaches to data analysis, atomistic details of thermal catalysis and electrochemical reactions at gas/solid and liquid/solid interfaces are revealed. In particular, structure-reactivity correlations on nanostructured materials can be established, paving the way for the rational design of novel catalytic materials.

Complex measuring stations and laboratories for the investigation of the electronic structure of catalyst surfaces under reaction conditions at the synchrotron radiation source BESSY II are operated by the Fritz Haber Institute of the MPG. The job holder works in a team that operates several beamlines at the synchrotron radiation source BESSY II for the investigation of catalytic processes.

We are looking for a scientist with interest in operando studies of catalysts in different reactions and in the further development of the available experimental infrastructure. The international user community of the above mentioned beamlines is very heterogeneous. Especially non-experienced user groups need intensive support during their first beam times.

Fields of activity

Independent performance of X-ray spectroscopic measurements on active catalyst surfaces in gas phases and liquids:

• Further development of reaction cells and infrastructure for operando investigation of heterogeneous catalytic and electrochemical processes using X-ray spectroscopy
• XPS and XAS measurements with dedicated reaction cells on catalysts under conditions of water oxidation and carbon dioxide reduction
• X-ray operando studies in the soft energy range of the ammonia synthesis, CO2 reduction and oxygen evolution reaction
• Guidance for doctoral students and engineers
• Data evaluation
• Independent preparation of publications
• Presentation of the results at international meetings

Collaboration in user support for the ISISS, BELCHem (UE56-2-PGM1), U17 and UE48 beam lines endstations:

• Support of the users in experiment planning and beam time application
• Support in the execution of experiments
• Advice and assistance with data analysis and publication of the results
• Maintenance and further development of the relevant equipment

Requirements

• A PhD degree in Chemistry, Physics or Physical Chemistry, preferably with a specialization in electrochemistry, thermal catalysis or surface science
• A strong publication record in renowned peer-reviewed journals
• Good knowledge of inorganic chemistry, heterogeneous catalysis and electrochemistry
• Good expertise in gas analysis mass spectrometry/chromatography
• Very good knowledge of in situ X-ray spectroscopy in the soft energy range
• Good expertise in vacuum technology
• High degree of flexibility and commitment
• Strong team and communication skills; high level of intercultural competence
• Very good written and spoken German and English

We offer

• An attractive and secure workplace with plenty of scope for professional and personal development, good opportunities for professional advancement
• Challenging tasks in a highly complex working environment with a wide range of high-end technologies and high-precision measuring instruments
• access to world-class laboratory and analytical infrastructure
• Participation in exciting and future-oriented questions
• A collegial, interdisciplinary environment
• subsidy for the job ticket
• The PostDoc position is initially for 1 year, but can be extended to three years.

Your application

Please submit your application via our online application portal as soon as possible including the following documents:

• Curriculum vitae
• List of publications
• Names and email addresses of three references

Applications will be accepted from immediately until the position is filled. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

For more information, please contact:

Dr. Axel Knop-Gericke ()

Max PlanckSociety

The Max Planck Society endeavors to achieve gender equality and diversity. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society aims to increase the participation of women in research. Therefore, applications by women are particularly welcome. The Max Planck Society is also committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals.