Postdoc in “Live” Visualization of Nanoparticle Catalysts at the Atomic-Scale – DTU Physics

Job Description

Organization: Technical University of Denmark (DTU) – DTU Physics, Center for Visualizing Catalytic Processes (VISION)

DTU Physics invites applications for multiple Postdoctoral positions in 2026 within the Center for Visualizing Catalytic Processes (VISION). The research focuses on nanoparticle catalysis using advanced operando electron microscopy to visualize catalytic processes at the atomic scale.

The VISION center integrates state-of-the-art electron microscopy, microfabricated nanoreactors, nanoparticle synthesis, and computational modelling to enable direct observation of catalytic reactions. Researchers will work in an international, interdisciplinary environment with leading scientists in catalysis, electron microscopy, and materials science.

Research Topics

• Designing Superior Catalytic Sites: Investigation of nanoparticle surfaces and electrocatalysis using advanced experimental tools, including size-selected nanoparticle synthesis and catalytic testing with EC–MS.
• Structure–Catalysis Relationships at the Atomic Scale: Development of nanoreactors and operando electron microscopy methods to study catalytic mechanisms in gas-phase reactions.
• Visualizing Chemical Dynamics in Real Time: Atomic-resolution imaging of catalytic nanoparticles during reactions, including analysis of atomic vibrations, surface reconstruction, and adsorption processes.
• Modeling Atomic Processes on Nanoparticles: Development of atomistic models and machine-learning potentials to simulate catalytic processes and interpret TEM data.

Responsibilities

• Conduct advanced research on catalytic nanoparticles using atomic-resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
• Develop experimental or computational methods for studying catalytic reactions at the atomic scale.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams including PhD students, postdocs, and international experts.
• Analyze experimental or simulation data and publish results in leading scientific journals.

Required Qualifications

• PhD degree (or equivalent) in physics, chemistry, materials science, or a related field.
• Strong academic performance and excellent problem-solving skills.
• For Topics 1–3: Experience in atomic-resolution electron microscopy, catalysis, surface science, microfabrication, or 2D materials.
• For Topic 4: Experience in computational modelling of atomistic processes.
• Experience in scientific programming (e.g., Python).
• Excellent communication skills in written and spoken English.

Employment Conditions

• Full-time postdoctoral position with a duration of 2 years.
• Expected start date: 1 September 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.
• Salary and employment conditions according to the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations.

Application Instructions

Applicants must submit a single PDF file containing:

• Application (cover letter)
• Curriculum vitae
• Academic diplomas (MSc/PhD)
• List of publications

Application Deadline: 31 May 2026 (23:59 Danish time).

Applicants should specify which research topic best matches their expertise and research interests.