This PhD position is part of a project focusing on the electrocatalytic activation of dinitrogen (N2), its reduction to ammonia and the electrochemical oxidation of ammonia to nitrate. It is part of the larger e-Refinery initiative at Delft. The project’s main challenges related to nitrogen reduction and oxidation reactions are that the kinetic limitations and hence current efficiencies for ammonia production are poor and prone to be superseded by competing hydrogen formation. We aim to develop novel electrocatalytic materials that are able to reduce nitrogen to ammonia, and to oxidize ammonia selectivily to nitrate. Furthermore, we aim to integrate both reactions into a prototype electrochemical device.

This PhD project will focus on developing active and efficient catalysts for ammonia production. We will do so by mimicking biological systems, integrating homogeneous motives into heterogeneous structures and by nanostructuring and alloying materials.

You have a recently completed master degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or Material Science, preferably with a focus on electrochemistry/electrochemical engineering. You have excellent academic qualifications and a strong drive to synthesize and explore new materials and understand their properties making use of state-of-the art characterization techniques. Strong experimental as well as communicative skills and a pioneering mentality are essential for this project.    

Fixed-term contract: Temporary.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. Coming to Delft Service organizes diverse events for new international employees and their accompanying partners, like Partner Career Workshops and Dutch Culture Workshops. Located on campus are the International Children’s Centre and an international primary school which are subject to availability as well as several bilingual schools in the nearby surrounding. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment; an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor; and a Doctoral Education Programme aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills. Please visit http://www.tudelft.nl/phd for more information.

Technische Universiteit Delft

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

Faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

The Faculty of Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering (3mE) trains committed engineering students, PhD candidates and post-doctoral researchers in groundbreaking scientific research in the fields of mechanical, maritime and materials engineering. 3mE is the epitome of a dynamic, innovative faculty, with a European scope that contributes demonstrable economic and social benefits.

The Department of Process and Energy (P&E) focuses on process and energy technology in a mechanical engineering context, meaning that a process or energy conversion is part of an apparatus. We envision that in the coming decades a transition from fossil/conventional energy conversion towards full electrification will take place in society. Our objective is to develop processes supporting this transition by making existing processes more efficient and developing novel green technologies that use electricity as a primary energy source to produce heavy transportation fuels and bulk chemicals. Continuum fluids are the common denominator, either as a process material, carrier, or solvent, or as a medium through which a transport, separation, or chemical process is carried out, see: https://www.tudelft.nl/en/3me/departments/process-energy/.