Vacancy No. 431/2025

PhD student (f/m/d) in the field of theoretical catalysis

75 % part-time

Job description

Chemical reactions in zeolites are to be investigated using quantum chemical methods. The processes unter investigation (methanol-to-olefins, syngas-to-olefins) involve the production of hydrocarbons from renewable raw materials. In addition to periodic density functional theory (DFT), ab initio methods and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations will also be performed for the investigations. Furthermore, machine learning can be tested to accelerate MD simulations.

In this project, you will be responsible for the following tasks in particular:

  • Investigation of reaction mechanismus using density functional theory and statistical thermodynamics
  • Kinetic modeling using mean-field models and transition state theory
  • Conducting MD simulations for the targeted investigation of selected problems
  • Publication of research results and participation in international conferences 
  • Cooperation and exchange with working groups
Personal qualification

You bring with you:

  • A completed scientific university degree (master's) in chemistry or a related field 
  • Knowledge of chemistry and quantum chemical methods
  • Computer skills in Linux and programming languages (e.g., Python)
  • Good communication skills
  • Team spirit and the ability to engage in constructive scientific exchange with colleagues
Organizational unit

Institute of Catalysis Research und Technology (IKFT)

Starting date

01.01.2026

Salary

Salary category 13 TV-L, depending on the fulfillment of professional and personal requirements.

Contract duration

limited for three years

Application up to

09.11.2025

Contact person in line-management

For further information, please contact Mr Dr. Pleßow, phone +49 721 608-24413.

Application

Please apply online using the button below for this vacancy number 431/2025 .
Personnel Support is provided by 

Ms Rink
phone: +49 721 608-25004,

Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany

We prefer to balance the number of employees (f/m/d). Therefore we kindly ask female applicants to apply for this job.
Recognized severely disabled persons will be preferred if they are equally qualified.