As a member of the Collaborative Research Center TrackAct (granted by DFG) you focus on the development and comprehensive testing of noble metal-based catalysts for emission control under various reaction conditions. You will use conventional and novel catalyst preparation methods, which are developed together with other project partners. The obtained catalysts will be systematically characterized and tested on advanced catalyst test setups at the Center for Emission Control Karlsruhe which is equipped with modern test rigs and a wide range of characterization techniques. The goal of your project is to derive structure-activity relationships for these functional nanomaterials, and to reduce the noble metal content in terms of sustainability. You will present your results at national and international conferences, and write publications for internationally renowned journals.

Your responsibilities:

• Synthesis, testing and characterization of emission control catalysts
• Extensive data evaluation, preparation of reports and publications
• Catalyst characterization using state-of-the-art spectroscopic methods
• Supervision of Bachelor and Master students

The position offers the use of synchrotron radiation at KIT and international large-scale facilities, such as PETRA III or ESRF. We bring together synthetic, spectroscopic, engineering and theoretical expertise to understand supported noble metal catalysts for emission control from the atomic scale up to the application level. As a doctoral researcher, you will have the opportunity to get acquainted with a very broad spectrum of know-how ranging from physics to chemistry and chemical engineering in one of the multiple graduate schools at KIT. In addition to these optimal research and working conditions, we offer you a targeted training, individual support and standard wage. Finally, you also have the possibility to temporarily join the research teams of collaboration partners abroad.

You should have a very good Master´s degree in chemistry or chemical engineering. Basic knowledge and experience in physical and technical chemistry as well as in catalysis are desired. In addition to the technical qualification, a high level of commitment, independence and self-reliant work as well as fluent written and spoken English are expected. German language skills are an advantage.

You should have:

• Independent and structured way of working
• A high level of teamwork, motivation and the willingness to contribute to the team with your own abilities
• Very good English and, if possible, German language skills
• A driving license valid in Europe is welcome