Electrochemical Nitrogen Reduction Specialist
This role involves the electrochemical reduction of oxidized nitrogen species, which is a critical aspect of achieving a sustainable circular economy. The global nitrogen cycle has been disrupted due to human activities, resulting in an imbalance between atmospheric N2 fixation and denitrification rates.
The research aims to develop efficient concepts for recycling already fixed-N compounds and supplementing with N2-fixation strategies to balance the N-cycle. Ammonia (NH3) is a promising candidate for storing and distributing H2, serving as a potential fuel and valuable chemical.
Recycling oxidized N-forms back to NH3 using green electrons and water can contribute to fixed-N recycling concepts, inhibiting the accumulation of reactive-N-species in the ecosystem. Direct usage of renewable electricity via electrocatalytic processes becomes attractive in power-to-X circular scenarios.
Key Responsibilities:
* Investigate the relationships between reactions' activity/selectivity and catalyst structures, reaction environment, and reactor designs using electrochemical and analytical experimental methods.
* SIMulate reaction schemes and transport phenomena to understand reaction mechanisms and enhance selectivity towards hydrogenated N-forms while suppressing undesirable product formation.
* Develop detailed models, simulations, and optimizations of an electrochemical reactor using tools such as Matlab and/or Python.
This position requires a strong background in engineering or natural sciences, preferably in chemical or process engineering, physics, chemistry, or related disciplines. A master's degree is required, and above-average grades are expected. Additionally, you should demonstrate a strong interest in combining theoretical and experimental work for reaction engineering and chemical analysis.
Requirements:
* Master's degree in engineering or natural sciences.
* Strong interest in combining theoretical and experimental work for reaction engineering and chemical analysis.
* Excellent communication skills and motivation for collaboration with colleagues.
* Very good knowledge of English.
A high level of expertise in chemical engineering laboratory work and model-based simulations is advantageous.'],