PhD position: Development of catalysts to convert CO2 into alcohols

The Laboratory of Energy Science and Engineering (LESE, ETH Zürich) is looking for a candidate to fill a PhD position to develop catalysts for the conversion of CO2 into alcohols. At LESE, we aim at advancing materials and processes to address the important challenge of producing fuels, electricity, and chemicals in efficient and sustainable ways. An important line of research focuses on the development of materials to close the CO2 cycle and ultimately allow societies to approach net zero emissions. The current PhD position is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) and is a collaboration between groups from the Chemistry department of ETH Zürich (Prof. Christophe Copéret group), University of Zurich (Dr. Iannuzzi group) and the Paul Scherrer Institute (Dr. Safonova group).

Specifically, this project, by combining high throughput experimentation, synthesis of model catalysts, operando characterization, and molecular modelling aims at identifying novel catalyst families and developing structure-performance relationships for catalysts for the hydrogenation of CO2 to higher alcohols (such as ethanol). The role of this specific PhD position will be the development of model catalysts and their operando characterization using X-ray absorption spectroscopy, X-ray total scattering, and infrared spectroscopy to identify the catalytically active sites/motifs.

You are expected to have:

• An excellent MSc degree in Chemical Engineering, Material Science, or Chemistry. Experience
• Knowledge in material synthesis and/or material structural characterization are highly valued.

We are looking for highly motivated, committed, and creative individuals, able to work in a team and with outstanding communication skills. Working in a top-level research environment with advanced laboratory infrastructure, the candidate will have a unique opportunity to develop their research abilities. The position is available from February 2024 onwards.

With the social and leadership competencies, ETH Zurich has developed a common understanding for a shared work culture.

• An exciting working environment
• Opportunities to learn cutting edge techniques
• Perspectives for career development
• A diverse and interdisciplinary team