Postdoc position for operando X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy

Operando characterization becomes ever more important for the rational design of energy materials. For electrocatalysts, e.g. for green hydrogen production, the surface properties define the catalytic properties and require more in-depth understanding. But most chemically-sensitive operando characterization tools lack surface sensitivity. In this project, funded via an ERC Grant of the European Commission, you will work on the development of photoelectron spectroscopy towards surface-sensitive operando characterization of the solid liquid interface.

The project relies on a new "operando photoemission" platform at the University of Twente, which combines advanced liquid-cell options and multi-color X-ray sources. The "operando photoemission" platform is created with the ambition to establish the first-of-its-kind laboratory-based XPS platform for operando characterization of the solid-liquid interface with maximum interface-sensitivity, and is made possible through a national infrastructure grant.

The key research idea relies on single-crystal-like, atomically defined surfaces achieved in the form of thin films or 2D materials. In collaboration with materials synthesis and spectroscopy experts from the Inorganic Materials Science group, you will make use of these materials to further develop the concepts of "meniscus XPS" and/or "membrane XPS". In the end, this will help clarify the central research question: How do the composition and electronic structure of the outermost atomic layer in state-of-the-art electrocatalysts impact the catalytic activity and how can we optimize materials design for maximum efficiency.

IMS is a research group devoted to thin film growth studies, (nano)structuring techniques, and properties of complex materials, in particular oxides. It includes materials with diverse properties, like ferroelectrics, ferromagnetics and multiferroics, piezo's, high-K dielectrics, transparent conducting oxides, non-linear optical materials, ion conductors, superconducting and related materials, and anti-reflection coatings. Its research field is focussed on thin films with modified properties by doping or by artificial layered structures and superstructures. Applications are found in, e.g., nano-electronics and spintronics, optical systems, fuel and solar cells, fluidics, bio-nano sensors.