PhD Student in Electrocatalysis

Electrocatalysis will play a transformative role in the green transition of the chemical industry. As a PhD student in the Stenlid lab, you will use advanced computational chemistry to design novel electrode materials for electrocatalytic conversion of biomass to essential platform chemicals. This project integrates theoretical chemistry, materials science, and organic synthesis, offering you the opportunity to contribute to a low-carbon future while growing as an independent researcher.

Project Overview

Biomass is a promising sustainable alternative to fossil feedstocks for producing essential industrial and societal platform chemicals. This project focuses on developing electrochemical pathways to generate and upgrade aromatic compounds from lignin – an abundant but underutilized resource. Using computational methods, we aim to design selective and durable electrocatalytic materials that facilitate the transformation of lignin derivatives into target products. During the project, you will identify catalytic active sites and uncover detailed mechanisms of reference catalysts. This knowledge will enable high-throughput screening and the design of new advanced electrocatalytic materials for sustainable electrochemical production of fuels and chemicals from biomass.

You will join the Stenlid lab at the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering. The lab tackles fundamental questions in surface- and electrochemistry aiming to design materials for (electro)catalytic and energy storage applications supporting a sustainable society.

As a member of the lab, you will be exposed to a broad range of computational methodologies, ranging from material characterization, via machine-learning and high-throughput methods, to ab initio calculation of electrochemical reaction kinetics. The position is part of the Chalmers Area of Advance in Energy and includes multidisciplinary collaborations where research visits to national and international research groups are encouraged.

Major Responsibilities

Your primary responsibilities include:

• Conducting research within the project scope.
• Supporting collaborations with national and international research groups.
• Undertaking departmental duties (10% of working hours) such as teaching, supervision, or leadership development.
• Pursuing doctoral studies by developing scientific concepts and communicating research results verbally and in writing.

This position will also prepare you for a successful career in industry, academia, or other sectors.

For more information about doctoral studies at Chalmers, click here.

Qualifications

Mandatory requirements:

• A Master’s degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, physics, materials science, or a related field, corresponding to at least 240 higher education credits.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.

Preferred skills and experiences:

• Experience with or knowledge of quantum chemistry and computational chemistry tools.
• Familiarity with electrocatalysis.
• Programming skills in Python or other languages.
• Research experience in academic or industrial environments.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.

Contract Terms

This is a full-time, temporary position limited to a maximum of five years.

What We Offer

Chalmers provides a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

How to Apply

Applications must be written in English and submitted as PDF files (maximum size: 40 MB per file). Note that ZIP files are not supported.

Required documents:

• CV: Include previous employment, leadership qualifications, and positions of trust. Provide the names and contact information for two references.
• Personal letter: (1–3 pages)
• Introduce yourself.
• Describe your previous experience relevant to the position (e.g., education, thesis work, or research activities).
• Outline your future goals and research focus.
• Other documents:
• Copies of your Bachelor’s and/or Master’s thesis.
• Attested copies and transcripts of completed education, grades, and other certificates (e.g., TOEFL test results).

Use the button at the bottom of this page to submit your application. Please ensure your application is complete, as incomplete submissions or applications sent via email will not be considered.

Please note that assessment tests may be conducted as part of the recruitment process.

Application deadline: 10 February, 2025

Contact Information

For questions, please contact:

• Assistant Professor Joakim Halldin Stenlid
  Email: [email protected]
  Phone: +46 70 293 63 60
• Professor Marcus Wilhelmsson
  Email: [email protected]
  Phone: +46 31 772 30 51
• HR partner Jenny Hörlyk
  Email: [email protected]
  Phone: +46 31 772 69 74

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***

Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg conducts research and education in technology and natural sciences at a high international level. The university has 3100 employees and 10,000 students, and offers education in engineering, science, shipping and architecture. With scientific excellence as a basis, Chalmers promotes knowledge and technical solutions for a sustainable world. Through global commitment and entrepreneurship, we foster an innovative spirit, in close collaboration with wider society. Chalmers was founded in 1829 and has the same motto today as it did then: Avancez – forward.