Materials science and technology are our passion. With our cutting-edge research, Empa's around 1,100 employees make essential contributions to the well-being of society for a future worth living. Empa is a research institution of the ETH Domain.
The Laboratory of High Performance Ceramics is offering a PhD position focused on the development of new catalytic materials for CO2 conversion. This project will center on high-entropy oxides, a promising class of catalysts, to help transform CO2 into valuable hydrocarbons. The work is part of a broader initiative aimed at advancing materials for integrated carbon capture and conversion technologies.
Your tasks
- Synthesize and characterize materials for heterogeneous catalysis applications
- Develop synthesis-structure-properties relationships to optimize material performance for CO2 valorization
- Work with project partners to design and implement AI-assisted high-throughput synthesis and testing protocols
- Contribute to the publication of research results and present findings at national and international scientific conferences
Your profile
We are looking for a highly motivated and proactive candidate with a strong academic background in materials science, chemistry, physics, chemical engineering, environmental engineering, or a related field. The ideal candidate should have a passion for sustainability and an interest in using innovative materials to address environmental challenges.
Required qualifications include:
- A Masters degree in materials science, chemical engineering, or a related field
- Experience in catalyst synthesis and characterization, or a strong willingness to learn
- A solid foundation in experimental research, data analysis, and scientific methods
- Interest in machine learning and data-driven approaches to materials discovery
- Strong interest in hands-on work and problem-solving
- Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal
Our offer
We offer a dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and the opportunity to work on a high-impact project at the intersection of materials science and environmental technology. The position is fully funded through an SNF Ambizione grant. The work will be carried out under the supervision of Dr. Amy Knorpp at Empa, and the student will be enrolled at ETH Zurich under the supervision of Prof. van Bokhoven. The position is available starting July 1st or later, with a duration of 3-4 years.
We live a culture of inclusion and respect. We welcome all people who are interested in innovative, sustainable and meaningful activities - that's what counts.
Cristina
Marinoni,
Bereichspersonalleiterin / HR Partner