Postdoc position for Investigating the Non-Scalable Quantum Size Regime in Catalysis - DTU Physics

The Section for Surface Physics & Catalysis (SURFCAT) is looking for candidates for a postdoc position for Investigating the Non-Scalable Quantum Size Regime in Catalysis.

This postdoctoral position is part of a Novo Nordisk Foundation funded project investigating the Non-Scalable Quantum Size Regime in Catalysis.

You will take charge of the electrochemical activity testing of size-selected bimetallic cluster catalysts for the electrochemical CO(2) reduction reaction (CO(2)RR), working with clusters produced in-house via a mass-selected cluster source. Your main task will be to quantify intrinsic CO(2)RR activity and, critically, product selectivity at the very low site densities characteristic of mass-selected cluster catalysts, using a membrane-based electrochemical mass spectrometry (EC-MS) setup for real-time, quantitative detection of gaseous and volatile liquid products. These measurements will together with atomic-scale structural characterization establish how quantum-size effects and heteroatomic ensembles in bimetallic clusters govern activity and selectivity.

Throughout, you will maintain strict sample integrity between synthesis and electrochemical testing (via UHV or inert-atmosphere transfer) to preserve true structure–function relationships, and you will correlate your electrochemical findings with structural and compositional data from STM, (S)TEM, XPS, ISS, and EXAFS, feeding results back into the project's closed-loop methodology.

Qualifications
The successful candidate is highly motivated, hardworking, and able to work effectively as part of a team.

Candidates must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent) in Physics, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science, along with profound experience and insight in electrocatalysis. Extensive hands-on experience with characterization and testing of electrocatalysts is an absolute requirement. Experience working with low catalyst loadings, product detection by mass spectrometry, and surface science characterization methods is considered an advantage.

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. In addition, supplements can be negotiated in accordance with DTU’s salary structure for scientific staff: www.inside.dtu.dk/en/human-resources/during-employment/salary/salary-structures.

The period of employment is 2 years. The position is available from 1 January 2027, but for the optimal candidate later dates may be negotiated.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information
For further information about the research at SurfCat at the Department of Physics at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) please inspect www.surfcat.dtu.dk.

Should you have any queries regarding the positions, please contact Professor Jakob Kibsgaard, jkib@dtu.dk.

You can read more about DTU Physics at https://physics.dtu.dk/.

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 1 November 2026 (23:59 Danish time). Apply online here: Postdoc position for Investigating the Non-Scalable Quantum Size Regime in Catalysis - DTU Physics

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• A cover letter motivating the application including describing your catalyst synthesis, characterization, and testing experience. (Max one page)
• CV
• Copies of BSc, MSc and PhD degree diplomas – in English
• List of publications
• Names and e-mail addresses or telephone numbers of 2 references

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

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