Postdoc (f/m/d) in Chemistry, Physics or Material Science for X-ray Spectroscopy
Reference No.: CE 2025/6
The Institute for Solar Fuels at the HZB develops new materials and devices for the solar-driven conversion of cheap and abundant resources into commodity chemicals and fuels with photo(electro)catalytic processes. Understanding structure function relationships of thin film and nanoparticle-based semiconductor photocatalysts is at the heart of these efforts. As part of our experimental repertoire, we operate an end-station at the BESSY II synchrotron that uses X-ray spectroscopy for in situ and operando interrogation of systems and devices used in solar-driven chemical conversion. This end-station, named Spectroscopic Analysis with Tender X-rays (SpAnTeX), is part of a lab jointly operated by the Fritz-Haber-Institut and the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin, known as the Berlin Joint Lab for Electrochemical Interfaces (BElChem). As a post-doctoral researcher at the SpAnTeX end-station you will be responsible for developing and using new X-ray spectroscopic techniques for investigating solar-driven chemical conversion processes and materials that use photo(electro)catalytic approaches. In particular, you will further develop a droplet train experiment for the investigation of photocatalysts in solution using tender X-rays. The BElChem facility consists of two beamlines, a soft X-ray and a tender X-ray beamline. SpAnTeX will be located on the tender X ray beamline which covers an energy range of approximately 2.4 to over 10 keV. The SpAnTeX end-station, as well as the other end-stations in the BElChem facility, is based on a modular concept that allows the easy and simple exchange of experimental modules. This allows users of the SpAnTeX end-station to tailor modules to their experimental requirements. There are currently two modules used at the SpAnTeX end-station, an electrochemical module and a droplet train module. The targeted user base for the SpAnTeX end station is from, but not limited to, the materials and energy research communities.Your Tasks
- Conduct fundamental investigations of semiconductor/electrolyte interfaces used in photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical chemical conversion
- Develop a new droplet train experiment to investigate semiconducting/nanoparticle interfaces used in photocatalytic reactions as well as the kinetics of photocatalytic reactions
- Support users (internal and external) of the SpAnTeX end-station and BElChem facility
- Maintain and upgrade the SpAnTeX end-station
- Disseminate experimental results at domestic and international conferences as well as in scientific journals
Your Profile
- Highly motivated and open-minded scientist holding a PhD degree in chemistry, physics, or materials science with experience working at a synchrotron
- Knowledge and experience using X-ray spectroscopies, in particular XAS and XPS
- Experience in the design, construction and implementation of instrumentation used for X-ray spectroscopy
- Strong interest in conducting research on photo(electro)catalytic materials and processes
- High level of intercultural competence and ability to work effectively in a team
- Excellent English communication skills are necessary, additional German skills are advantageous
Your Benefits at HZB
- Opportunity to contribute to the development of innovative materials and technological solutions for a climate-neutral future in cooperation with leading international researchers
- Commitment to diversity and sustainability through an inclusive working environment, promotion of diversity sensitivity and implementation of sustainable and climate-neutral methods
- Career-enhancing networking opportunities and individual mentoring and support from the HZB Graduate Centre and HZB Postdoc Office
- Attractive remuneration through payment according to Public Service Wage Agreement (TVöD Bund)
- 30 days holiday/year
- Extensive additional benefits, such as company pension plan (VBL), subsidy for public transport (Deutschlandticket Job) and company sports programmes
- Good work-life balance through counselling services on family and career and flexible working time models: Flexitime, part-time, hybrid working
- And a team that is looking forward to meeting you!
Fixed term contract for 36 months. The salary is based on the Collective Agreement for the German Public Service (TVöD-Bund).
How to apply
We ask you to enclose the following documents with your application:- Letter of motivation with a description of your research interests highlighting your experience working at a synchrotron
- Curriculum vitae outlining the stages of your career to date, publications to date, research experience and the contact details of at least two scientific references
- Certificates and grades
We very much want our workplace to be diverse, and welcome applications from people with different backgrounds. It is our mission to promote equal opportunities and to improve women’s representation in the workforce. We are therefore very interested in receiving applications from women. Where the qualifications are met, we will give preference to people with disabilities.
For German version, please click on the following link: German Version.