PhD Position in Fundamental Adsorption Mechanisms on Silica-Alumina Gels, University of Duisburg-Essen, Germany

Summary

The University of Duisburg-Essen seeks a doctoral researcher for a DFG‑funded project investigating adsorption mechanisms on silica‑alumina gels. The three‑year position (starting 2027‑02‑01) offers a TV‑L 13 salary (gross €59,324‑€84,319) and the possibility of part‑time work. The candidate will conduct calorimetric and NMR experiments, analyse data, publish results, and contribute to teaching and administrative tasks. The role provides a supportive public‑service environment, extensive training, family‑friendly benefits, and opportunities for international collaboration. Applications are due by 2026‑12‑02.

Key Facts

Employer	University of Duisburg-Essen
Department	Fakultät für Ingenieurwissenschaften, Institut für Thermische Verfahrenstechnik
Position Type	PhD
Discipline	Chemical Engineering
Research Area	Fundamental adsorption mechanisms on silica-alumina gels
Degree Required	Master's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering or related natural/engineering science
Experience	Initial scientific research experience
Salary	TV-L 13 (gross €59,324 – €84,319)
Funding	Salary (TV-L) funded by DFG project
Language	English
Deadline	2026-12-02
Required Documents	Cover letter, Curriculum vitae, Supporting documents
Employer Address	Forsthausweg 2 (Duisburg campus); Universitätsstraße 2 (Essen campus), 47057 (Duisburg); 45141 (Essen), North Rhine-Westphalia

About the Project

The project aims to elucidate how aluminium centers and silanol groups influence adsorption on silica‑alumina gels. By combining modern adsorption calorimetry with spectroscopic methods, especially NMR, the research will generate a molecular‑level understanding of the interactions governing adsorption processes, contributing to both fundamental science and industrial applications.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute adsorption calorimetry experiments
• Perform NMR spectroscopic analyses
• Analyze and interpret experimental data at the molecular level
• Publish findings in scientific journals and present at conferences
• Contribute to teaching and course development
• Support administrative and organisational tasks of the chair

Required Skills

• Experimental research methods
• Adsorption calorimetry
• NMR spectroscopy
• Data analysis and modelling software
• Knowledge of physical chemistry and chemical engineering
• Independent and structured work style
• Team collaboration
• Proficiency in English (written and spoken)

Who Should Apply

Applicants should hold a master’s degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, process engineering or a related field, with at least eight semesters of study. They should have initial research experience, be proficient in experimental techniques such as adsorption calorimetry and NMR, possess solid knowledge of physical chemistry and adsorption, work independently and in interdisciplinary teams, and have good written and spoken English.

Benefits

• Public‑service employment with reliable conditions
• Three‑year DFG‑funded PhD project
• Interdisciplinary research environment
• Opportunity to develop an independent scientific profile
• Involvement in teaching activities
• Respectful and dynamic team culture
• Comprehensive training and onboarding
• Cafeteria and Mensa services
• Corporate benefit discounts
• Family‑friendly support (childcare, care advice)
• Excellent public transport links and free parking
• 30 days vacation plus extra days on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve
• Fair pay according to TV‑L, including annual bonus and pension scheme
• Extensive sports and health offers

About the Employer

The University of Duisburg‑Essen describes itself as a young, innovative university located in the Ruhr metropolitan area, distinguished for research and teaching excellence. It emphasizes diversity, potential promotion, and a commitment to educational justice. The Faculty of Engineering hosts the Institute of Thermal Process Engineering, which focuses on adsorption research and collaborates with national and international partners and leading chemical industry companies.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the position start?

2027-02-01

Is part‑time employment possible?

Yes, part‑time employment is possible.

How many vacation days are provided?

30 days per year plus additional days on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve.