PhD Position in Local pH Effects in Electrocatalysis and Thermocatalysis, Technical University of Munich, Germany

Summary

The Hülsey Research Group at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) is offering a 3-year PhD position focused on local pH effects in electrochemical and thermochemical catalysis. The position is funded by the DFG and paid at 67% TV-L E13, with an ideal start date in early 2027. The project involves investigating proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) reactions and developing electrodes and electrochemical methods to directly measure pH at catalyst surfaces. Applicants should hold a Master's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related disciplines, and demonstrate strong English communication skills. Applications consist of a CV, contact details for references, and a motivation letter sent as a single PDF. Priority consideration is given to applications received before November 30.

Key Facts

Employer	Technical University of Munich
Department	Hülsey Research Group
Position Type	PhD Student
Discipline	Chemistry / Chemical Engineering
Research Area	Electrocatalysis and Thermocatalysis
Degree Required	Master's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related fields
Salary	TV-L E13 (67%)
Funding	DFG funded project
Contract Duration	3 years
Language	English (German optional)
Required Documents	CV with contact details of 2-3 references, Motivation letter (max 2 pages)
Employer Contact	m.huelsey(at)tum.de
Employer Address	Bavaria (Bayern), 80333, Bavaria (Bayern)

About the Project

This DFG-funded research project investigates the influence of local pH on electrochemical and thermochemical catalytic reactions. Because proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) reactions explicitly depend on pH, the group develops novel electrodes and electrochemical methods to enable direct pH measurements at the catalyst surface.

Key Responsibilities

• Synthesize catalysts and perform spectroscopic characterization
• Quantify reaction products using methods such as electrochemical mass spectrometry
• Design and optimize electrochemical and thermochemical reactors
• Conduct surface kinetics measurements

Required Skills

• Master's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related fields
• Strong interest and enthusiasm for chemistry and chemical engineering
• Good written and spoken English communication skills

Who Should Apply

Candidates holding a Master's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or closely related fields with an excellent academic background, strong interest in catalysis, and good English communication skills should apply. Diverse backgrounds in chemical sciences are welcomed.

Benefits

• 3-year contract at 67% TV-L E13 salary level
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and infrastructure
• Excellent training and supervision in catalysis research
• European and international networking opportunities

About the Employer

The Technical University of Munich (TUM) is a leading university based in Munich, Germany, committed to increasing the proportion of female staff and actively encouraging applications from qualified women and individuals with severe disabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualification is required to apply?

Applicants must hold a Master's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.

Is German language proficiency mandatory?

No, good communication skills in English are required, while German language skills are optional.

What is the funding and duration of the position?

The position is funded by the DFG for 3 years at a rate of 67% TV-L E13.

How should applications be submitted?

Applications should be sent directly via email to m.huelsey(at)tum.de as a single PDF containing a CV with 2-3 reference contacts and a motivation letter.