Postdoc Position in Materials Chemistry

SDU - University of Southern Denmark

Sønderborg, Denmark

We are seeking an enthusiastic new colleague as a postdoctoral research associate in the field of Materials Chemistry with a strong background, particularly in Solid State Chemistry and (Photo)electrochemistry, and interest in industrial applications and cooperation to join the Mads Clausen Institute (MCI) at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) in Sønderborg, Denmark. The position is for two years with an expected starting date of 01.03.2027.

The successful candidate is expected to carry out research mainly within a project funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation. The project is hosted by the nanotechnology centre NanoSYD, a part of MCI, and it is integrated into the novel, active working group CatMatX, a research laboratory focused on developing next-generation catalytic materials for sustainable energy and environmental applications, by Professor Mirabbos Hojamberdiev. The research work involves the synthesis and characterization of novel compounds based on mixed-anion compounds (e.g., transition metal (oxy)nitrides) and the evaluation of their performance in solar water splitting. Also, the successful candidate is expected to be actively involved in the supervision of MSc and PhD students affiliated with SDU NanoSYD, preparing project reports, presentations, and publications, as well as writing project proposals to support research at SDU NanoSYD.

Job Description and Responsibilities

• Implementation of research tasks related to the project;
• Collaborative and independent research planning, materials synthesis and characterization, and evaluation of materials performance in solar water splitting;
• Independent characterization, data analysis, and interpretation of research results;
• Scientific communication and presentation of research results at group seminars, scientific conferences, project meetings, etc.;
• Publishing of project results in international peer-reviewed scientific journals with high impact factors.

Potential Responsibilities

• Supervision of BSc, MSc, and exchange/visiting students who perform research work on similar research topics;
• Assistance in teaching activities;
• Assistance in setting up the research infrastructure;
• Assistance in the preparation of grant proposals for external funding.

Mandatory qualifications

• PhD degree in Materials Science, Materials Chemistry, Solid State Chemistry, Solid State Physics, Electrochemistry, or related fields;
• Proven hands-on experience and knowledge of various synthesis methods in solid-state chemistry, preferably the methods used for the synthesis of mixed-anion compounds;
• Technical skills in materials characterization techniques (e.g., XRD, XPS, SEM);
• Proven track record of publishing in international peer-reviewed scientific journals as leading author;
• Fluency in English (both spoken and written);
• Ability to work in teams and also independently;
• Strong communication skills;
• Willingness to collaborate with other scientists and industry.

The following qualifications are advantageous

• Research experience in X-ray, synchrotron, and neutron radiation facilities, DFT calculations and MD simulations;
• Research experience in electrochemistry and solar water splitting;
• Technical skills in scientific illustration and animation to deliver visual knowledge of the project;
• Proven record in participating in national and international research projects;
• Strong interest in a long-term commitment to a growing research group.