Key responsibilities
The project is part of a NWO funded “Materials for Sustainability” project. We combine experimental and theoretical studies of CO2 reacting with metallic Cu particles and single crystals to gain fundamental insight into the structure dependence of the initial elementary steps in the conversion of CO2 into useful chemicals, e.g. CH3OH.

 The experimental studies in Leiden combine supersonic molecular beam techniques, state-resolved infrared excitation, and (curved) single crystals of Cu. Reactivity is probed by infrared spectroscopy of dissociation products or subsequent intermediates on Cu single crystals. We also study the reactivity of CO2 on well-defined Cu particles deposited onto single crystal substrates, which are characterised, by Scanning Electron Microscopy and Scanning Tunnelling Microscopy.

Selection criteria

• Master’s degree in Chemistry, Physics, or a related field in Engineering;
• Good to excellent proficiency in English;
• Ability to work independently in a multidisciplinary environment;
• Some research experience in the area of physical chemistry/chemical physics is required;
• Experience with (ultra)high vacuum (UHV), molecular beams, single crystals, (CW) lasers, infrared spectroscopy, SEM, STM and/or mass spectrometry is a plus;
• The PhD research needs to start no later than December 2018.

Terms and conditions
We offer a full-time 1-year term position for initially one year. After a positive evaluation of the progress of the thesis, personal capabilities and compatibility the appointment will be extended by a further three years. Salary range from €2.266 to €2.897 gross per month (pay scale P in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities).

Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3%), training and career development and sabbatical leave. Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. Candidates from outside The Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break.

All our PhD students are embedded in the Leiden University Graduate School of Science www.graduateschools.leidenuniv.nl. Our graduate school offers several PhD training courses at three levels: professional courses, skills training and personal effectiveness. In addition, advanced courses to deepen scientific knowledge are offered by the research school.

Diversity
Leiden University is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from members of underrepresented groups.

Universiteit Leiden

Leiden is a typical university city, hosting the oldest university in the Netherlands (1575). The University permeates the local surroundings; University premises are scattered throughout the city, and the students who live and study in Leiden give the city its relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere.

Leiden University is one of Europe's foremost research universities. This prominent position gives our graduates a leading edge in applying for academic posts and for functions outside academia. More at https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/working-at.

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