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Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry :
Activation of Small Molecules
In order to fill a fixed-term position in full-time (39.83 hours/week = 100%) at the earliest possible date, we are looking for 1
Research Associate (m/f/x) for electrochemcial alcohol synthesis
We are a dedicated and interdisciplinary team of chemists and engineers, united by our passion for electrolysis and its pivotal role in the energy transition. We combine cutting-edge fundamental research with practical, scalable application solutions to help drive climate protection forward. In our daily work, we rely on state-of-the-art analytical and simulation tools, and we maintain close collaborations with industrial partners, research institutions, and stakeholders. Our goal: to develop customized, forward-thinking solutions for complex challenges in electrochemical technologies. Our research and development portfolio covers a wide spectrum — from designing novel electrolysis materials and optimizing process conditions to scaling up from lab-scale prototypes to industrial systems for hydrogen generation, CO₂ conversion reaction, bioelectrochemical as well as electroorganic systems. Throughout all our activities, quality, innovation, and long-term impact take center stage. As a reliable and forward-looking partner, we accompany our collaborators on their journey toward a more sustainable future.
As a research associate (m/f/x), you will play an active role in advancing electrochemical alcohol synthesis. You will establish a test setup for the electrochemical conversion of CO₂ and CO to alcohols, establish suitable product analytics, and execute electrolysis experiments. You will fabricate and optimize membrane electrode assemblies and related materials for operation in state-of-the-art electrochemical systems. You will carefully analyze the resulting data and contribute your ideas and expertise to the development of next-generation electrode materials and technologies for efficient electrochemical alcohol synthesis.
Scope: full-time
Duration: fixed-term, 2 years
Start: at the earliest possible date
Apply by: 2028-08-11
Your tasks:
- Independent planning and execution of experiments
- Design, implementation, and operation of a test bench for the electrochemical conversion of CO₂ and CO to alcohols
- Development of suitable protocols for product quantification
- Fabrication, characterization, and optimization of membrane electrode assemblies for gas-fed electrolyzers
- Data analysis and evaluation
- Scientific communication and dissemination
Your profile:
- PhD in Chemistry, Process Engineering or a related discipline with excellent academic results
- Extensive experience with gas-fed MEA-based electrolyzers
- Experience with planning and implementing of electrochemical test benches including safety equipment
- Experience with analytical techniques for small organic molecules, especially GC and NMR
- Practical knowledge of fabrication and characterisation methods for electrodes/MEAs
- Open-minded and collaborative attitude, capable of working effectively in interdisciplinary teams and adapting to evolving project needs.
- Strong scientific communication skills in English, both written and oral, including the ability to document results clearly and present findings to diverse audiences.
We offer:
- Challenging and varied tasks with a high level of independence
- A dynamic and supportive interdisciplinary environment where chemists and engineers collaborate closely to tackle cutting-edge challenges in electrolysis and energy conversion.
- Access to state-of-the-art laboratories and advanced equipment, including automated electrochemical test platforms and Zero-Gap cells.
- Opportunities for independent research as well as teamwork, fostering personal and professional growth.
- A culture that values open communication, creativity, and the exchange of ideas across disciplines.
- Close cooperation with industrial partners and renowned research institutions, providing excellent networking and career development prospects.
- Support for attending international conferences, workshops, and training to expand your scientific horizon and visibility.
- A commitment to sustainability and making a tangible impact on the energy transition and climate protection.
Further information:
The position is salaried and based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade E13 TV-L.
Further information can be found at (in German).
The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.
If the position is funded by third-party funds the employee has no teaching obligation.
RUB sees itself as a university with an international presence. The campus languages are German and English. Competence in at least one of the two languages and the willingness to learn the other are a prerequisite. RUB provides corresponding free courses for employees.
German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZFA) in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF). https://www.daf.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/daf/mitarbeitende/index.html.en
The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews. At the request of a candidate (m/f/x), it will ensure its participation in the entire procedure. Please contact wpr@rub.de.
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum is one of Germany’s leading research universities, addressing the whole range of academic disciplines. A highly dynamic setting enables researchers and students to work across the traditional boundaries of academic subjects and faculties. To create knowledge networks within and beyond the university is Ruhr-Universität Bochum’s declared aim.
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum stands for diversity and equal opportunities. For this reason, we favour a working environment composed of heterogeneous teams, and seek to promote the careers of individuals who are underrepresented in our respective professional areas. The Ruhr-Universität Bochum expressly requests job applications from women. In areas in which they are underrepresented they will be given preference in the case of equivalent qualifications with male candidates. Applications from individuals with disabilities are most welcome.
Contact persons for further information:
Prof. Dr. Ulf-Peter Apfel , Tel.: +49 234 32 21831
Dr. Julian Kleinhaus , Tel.: +49 234 32 27242
Travel costs, accommodation costs and loss of earnings or other application costs for job interviews can unfortunately not be reimbursed.
We look forward to receiving your application via our online application portal by 2028-08-11. Please make sure to mention the reference number ANR 5899.
RUHR-UNIVERSITÄT BOCHUM
44801 Bochum
Universitätsstraße 150
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