PhD position: Operando X-ray spectroscopy on electrocatalytic interfaces (1.0 FTE)

This project is part of the MSCA Doctoral Networks program e-ChemIn, connecting 10 research institutes and 3 companies across Europe in a joint effort to identify design electrochemical interfaces for electrocatalysis and batteries. You will investigate how the properties of the electrode-electrolyte interface can be leveraged to optimize the activity, selectivity, and stability of electrocatalytic systems for H2O oxidation to H2O2, H2O reduction to H2 and NO3- reduction to NH3, in close connection to the catalyst development efforts in the consortium. Using operando XPS and soft XAS, you will resolve the active electrode-electrolyte interface structure present under catalytic conditions, and study how it changes when the catalyst structure (e.g. crystallinity and elemental ratio) and electrolyte composition (pH, ions) are varied.  By linking this to the observed activity, stability and selectivity, you will build interface design principles for electrocatalytic systems. During the project, you will collaborate with various partners in the consortium, including partners working on catalyst synthesis, complementary surface X-ray diffraction, and complementary (in situ) electron microscopy.

Secondments (short-term academic and/or industrial research stays) are an integral part of the doctoral training program: According to current project plans 2 secondments are foreseen: 1) 4 months at the University of Trieste (Prof. Paolo Fornasiero), working on the preparation of electrocatalysts for anodic H2O2 production.  2) 4 months at the University of Liverpool (Dr. Yvonne Grunder) for SXRD studies to complement the operando X-ray spectroscopies for resolving electrode-electrolyte interface structures. 

This project is a good match for you if you like:

• Understanding electrochemistry at the molecular level
• Working with advanced measurement techniques
• Working as a team, both within the group and in collaborations with other institutes

The selected candidate will be required to enroll in a PhD program at Leiden University and will be supervised by:

Main supervisor: Dr. Rik Mom, Leiden University

https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/research/research-projects/science/operando-research-in-electrochemistry

Co-supervisor: Dr. Yvonne Grunder, University of Liverpool

https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/physics/research/condensed-matter-physics/

Co-supervisor from secondment:

Prof. Paolo Fornasiero, University of Trieste

https://meeresearch.weebly.com/

Further information on the other projects within the consortium can be found on Euraxess.

Applicants must not already hold a doctoral degree at the date of recruitment. Applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in The Netherlands for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before the recruitment date. Eligibility will be verified at the time of recruitment.

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate, who has:

• A Master’s degree in Chemistry or Physics, Materials Science or a related discipline;
• A strong interest in spectroscopy and electrochemistry;
• Excellent proficiency in English;
• Good technical experimental skills.

You should feel comfortable working in a collaborative environment with experimentally complex experiments. Analytical thinking, creativity, and an independent working attitude are highly valued. Experience with electrochemistry, vacuum equipment, or in situ spectroscopy is considered an advantage.

We offer a position for initially one year and upon satisfactory performance to be extended for three more years. You will be appointed in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The salary ranges from €3.059,- to €3.881,-  gross per month, depending on experience (pay scale P in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities). Mobility and family allowances as applicable according to Marie Skłodowska-Curie PhD fellowship scheme for early career researchers.

Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3 %), training and career development. Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. For international spouses we have set up a dual career programme. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break. For more information, see the website.

Please submit your application via the online recruitment system using the “apply now” button at the top or bottom of this page. Please ensure that you quote the vacancy number and include the following documents in your application:

• Your CV, including a detailed description of residence and main activities over the last 3 years
• A motivation letter
• Copies of academic degrees, including course/grade transcript
• Contact details of at least two references, including names, affiliations and email addresses.

Recruitment will follow the MSCA Doctoral Network principles of:

• Open, transparent and merit-based selection
• Equal opportunities and non-discrimination
• Evaluation by a qualified selection committee

Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews. The selection process will be properly documented in accordance with MSCA requirements.

Only applications received no later than 20-09-2026 can be considered. The project starting date is 01-04-2027 at the latest (earlier start preferred).

For more information about the project, please contact Dr. Rik Mom (r.v.mom@lic.leidenuniv.nl). If you have any questions about the procedure lease contact Angelo Philippi (a.philippi@lic.leidenuniv.nl)

The Faculty of Science at Leiden University is a world-class faculty where staff and students work together in a dynamic international environment. It is a faculty where personal and academic development are top priorities. Our people are committed to expand fundamental knowledge by curiosity and to look beyond the borders of their own discipline; their aim is to benefit science, and to make a contribution to addressing the major societal challenges of the future.

The research carried out at the Faculty of Science is very diverse, ranging from mathematics, information science, astronomy, physics, chemistry and bio-pharmaceutical sciences to biology and environmental sciences. The research activities are organized in eight institutes. These institutes offer eight bachelors’ and twelve master’s programmes. The faculty has grown strongly in recent years and now has more than 2,300 staff and over 5,000 students. We are located at the heart of Leiden’s Bio Science Park, one of Europe’s biggest science parks, where university and business life come together.

Leiden University is one of Europe’s leading international research universities. Thanks to its committed and inspired employees, the university enjoys a leading role in academic research and education. Leiden also scores very well every year in prominent rankings. This means that, to maintain our position, the bar is set very high. Regardless of the work you do at our university, you are always encouraged to broaden your horizons, develop your talents and reach your full potential. Will you become our newest colleague?

You can find more information about the Faculty of Science at https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science/about-faculty-of-science.

For more information about working at Leiden University please visit https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/working-at.