PhD Position – CO₂ and CO Conversion in Protonic Ceramic Electrochemical Cells

Job Description

Organization: University of Groningen – Faculty of Science and Engineering (ENTEG Institute)

The Engineering and Technology Institute Groningen (ENTEG) at the University of Groningen invites applications for a PhD position focused on electrocatalytic CO₂ and CO conversion in Protonic Ceramic Electrochemical Cells (PCECs). The project aims to develop efficient and durable electrocatalysts to improve the performance of PCECs operating at intermediate temperatures (350–600 °C).

PCECs enable the direct production of methane, higher hydrocarbons (C2–C3), alcohols, and syngas, offering strong potential for power-to-X (P2X) technologies and electrification of chemical processes. The research is part of the HyCarb consortium within the Dutch National Growth Fund initiative GroenvermogenNL.

Research Responsibilities

• Synthesis and characterization of electrocatalysts operating at 350–600 °C.
• Fabrication and testing of electrochemical cells with targeted properties.
• Characterization of electrode materials and interfaces to understand reaction pathways.
• Preparation of scientific publications and conference presentations.
• Teaching activities (~10%), including assisting courses and supervising bachelor and master students.
• Active contribution to the collaborative research environment at ENTEG and the Chemical Engineering group.

Candidate Profile

• Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Strong motivation for scientific research and problem-solving.
• Analytical thinking, initiative, and creativity.
• Excellent written and spoken English communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in an international research environment.

Position Details

• Contract: Full-time (1.0 FTE) PhD position for 4 years.
• Salary: €3,059 – €3,881 gross per month according to the Dutch university collective labor agreement.
• Benefits include 232 vacation hours per year, 8% holiday allowance, and 8.3% end-of-year bonus.
• Extensive professional development and training opportunities.

The research will be conducted at the Engineering and Technology Institute Groningen (ENTEG) within the Faculty of Science and Engineering at the University of Groningen, the Netherlands.