Postdoc

The Section for Surface Physics & Catalysis (SurfCat) is looking for candidates for a postdoc position for Investigating the Non-Scalable Quantum Size Regime in Catalysis.

This postdoctoral position is part of a Novo Nordisk Foundation funded project investigating the Non-Scalable Quantum Size Regime in Catalysis. 

You will take charge of the electrochemical activity testing of size-selected bimetallic cluster catalysts for the electrochemical CO(2) reduction reaction (CO(2)RR), working with clusters produced in-house via a mass-selected cluster source. Your main task will be to quantify intrinsic CO(2)RR activity and, critically, product selectivity at the very low site densities characteristic of mass-selected cluster catalysts, using a membrane-based electrochemical mass spectrometry (EC-MS) setup for real-time, quantitative detection of gaseous and volatile liquid products. These measurements will together with atomic-scale structural characterization establish how quantum-size effects and heteroatomic ensembles in bimetallic clusters govern activity and selectivity. 

Throughout, you will maintain strict sample integrity between synthesis and electrochemical testing (via UHV or inert-atmosphere transfer) to preserve true structure–function relationships, and you will correlate your electrochemical findings with structural and compositional data from STM, (S)TEM, XPS, ISS, and EXAFS, feeding results back into the project's closed-loop methodology. 

Qualifications
The successful candidate is highly motivated, hardworking, and able to work effectively as part of a team. 

Candidates must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent) in Physics, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science, along with profound experience and insight in electrocatalysis. Extensive hands-on experience with characterization and testing of electrocatalysts is an absolute requirement. Experience working with low catalyst loadings, product detection by mass spectrometry, and surface science characterization methods is considered an advantage.

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility. 

Salary and terms of employment 
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. In addition, supplements can be negotiated in accordance with DTU’s salary structure for scientific staff: www.inside.dtu.dk/en/human-resources/during-employment/salary/salary-structures.