PhD Electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 under supercritical conditions

In the Chemical Engineering group of the University of Groningen, we are looking for a PhD candidate for a project on the “Electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 under supercritical conditions.” To achieve the energy transition it is necessary that the chemical industry no longer depends on fossil feedstocks. CO2 is a promising, sustainable carbon source; however, its conversion to C1-C2 chemicals and fuels is currently an energy intensive process with low productivity, since its feed is often (dissolved) CO2 gas. In this PhD project, you will explore a novel strategy: utilizing supercritical CO2 to maximize the contact between CO2 and the electrode. Your activities during this PhD project will include the development of suitable electrochemical reactors and their optimization to maximize the contact with the electrocatalyst in order to increase the conversion efficiency of CO2 and the yield of value-added products. Your supervisors will be Dr Dulce M. Morales, Assist. Professor in Electrocatalysis, and Prof. Paolo P. Pescarmona, Full. Prof. in Catalysis & Sustainability.

Organisation
The University of Groningen has an international reputation as a dynamic and innovative centre of higher education offering high-quality teaching and research. Balanced study and career paths in a wide variety of disciplines encourage the 34,000 students and researchers to develop their own individual talents. Belonging to the best research universities in Europe and joining forces with prestigious partner universities and networks, we are truly an international place of knowledge.

The Faculty of Science and Engineering harbours a kaleidoscope of disciplines and research strengths, ranging from natural sciences to advanced engineering.

The Engineering and Technology institute Groningen (ENTEG) is highly multidisciplinary in nature and focuses on fundamental and applied research on the development of innovative processes and products for a wide range of sectors. Research activities are performed in the field of chemical and biochemical systems, mechanical and electric systems, and system networks.

Responsibilities and tasks

- Development of electrochemical reactors for supercritical and liquid CO2.
- Testing and optimization of the reactors developed.
- Preparation of the electrocatalysts for CO2 targeting reduction to C1-C2 products.
- Identification and quantification of reaction products.
- Preparation of scientific articles and conference communications.
- Supervision of bachelor and master students and to teaching activities (10% of your time).
- Contribution to the scientific and collaborative research environment in the Chemical Engineering group and in the whole ENTEG.

We are looking for a motivated and skilled student with a MSc degree in Chemical Engineering or related disciplines. Background in electrochemistry, catalysis and/or supercritical CO2 is appreciated. The successful candidate should have a strong commitment to interdisciplinary research. Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English are required.

We offer you, following the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities:

- a salary of € 2,872 gross per month in the first year, up to a maximum of € 3,670 gross per month in the fourth and final year for a full-time working week.
- a holiday allowance of 8% gross annual income.
- an 8.3% end-of-the-year allowance.
- a fulltime (1.0 FTE) position for four years; first, you will get a temporary position of one year with the option of renewal for another three years; prolongation of the contract is contingent on sufficient progress in the first year to indicate that successful completion of the PhD thesis within the contract period is to be expected. A PhD training program is part of the agreement and you will be enrolled in the Graduate School of the Faculty of Science and Engineering.

Candidates are expected to start in early 2025