Overview
PhD Position: Spectro-electrochemical electrode surface characterisation and double layer modelling 100 %
ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences
Starting date
1. April 2026 or earlier
Your role
The position is fully funded by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie European Training Network "SPACER". It will be carried out by one doctoral candidate at ZHAW over a period of 36 months. We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join our research team working on mathematical modelling of electrochemical processes in flow batteries. This project focuses on developing physics-based models of electrochemical double layers and their spectro-electrochemical characterisation, contributing to fundamental understanding in processes at the electrode-electrolyte interface, which are crucial for developing next-generation flow battery materials. The successful candidate will work on cutting-edge research combining computational modelling with experimental validation. The project involves developing time- and position-dependent models of electrochemical double layers, and parameter estimation methods incorporating electrochemical measurements (e.g. cyclic voltammetry) and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy data.
Your profile / Qualifications
* In accordance with the European Union's funding rules for doctoral networks, applicants must NOT yet have a PhD
* Excellent master's degree in computational science, physics, mathematics, chemical engineering, materials science, or a related discipline
* Experience in mathematical modelling and numerical methods for ordinary and partial differential equations
* Strong interest in working in a cross-disciplinary, collaborative project at the interface of electrochemistry and mathematical modelling
* Knowledge of spectroscopy is beneficial, but not required
* Experience in at least one programming language for scientific computing (C/C++, Matlab, Fortran, Python, Julia, ...)
* Good communication skills and willingness to work in collaborative projects with multiple partners and present results at conferences, project meetings and partners
* Very good English language skills (German is not required, but beneficial)
* Self-motivation and the ability to achieve goals independently as well as to contribute effectively to the team
* Should comply with the mobility rules in MSCA doctoral networks: in general, applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the country of the recruiting organisation for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before their recruitment date
Apply online now
What we offer / Benefits
We offer working conditions and terms of employment commensurate with higher education institutions and actively promote personal development for staff in leadership and non-leadership positions. A detailed description of advantages and benefits can be found at Working at the ZHAW. The main points are listed below:
* Workplace Culture
* Work Life Balance
* Diversity and Inclusion
* Personal Development
* Environmental, Economic and Social Sustainability at the ZHAW
* Occupational Health Management
* Salary and Pension Provision
Contacts
Dr. Roman Schärer
Lecturer in the team Electrochemical Flow Cells and Energy Systems
spacer-dc17-zhaw@proton.me
Jasmin Strobel
Recruiting Manager
jasmin.strobel@zhaw.ch
Location
ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Winterthur Region of Winterthur/Schaffhausen 8401
#J-18808-Ljbffr