Position: PhD fellowship (funding secured for 3-4 years) is immediately available only for an applicant who lives currently in Germany or in EU countries, in the research training group (Graduiertenkolleg GRK 1322 „Micro Energy Harvesting“), supported by the German research foundation (DFG) in connection with University of Freiburg.

Responsibilities: for B1 project entitled “Metallic and biomimetic Nano-Catalysts for Glucose Fuel Cells”. The study will use water-in-oil microemulsion method to prepare monometallic or bimetallic nanoparticles (NPs) supported on different carbon nanostructures as nanocatalysts for one-compartment biofuel cell applications. The synergistic effect of supported bimetallic NPs or other nanohybrid systems can be utilized to have tolerant catalysts in mixed-reactant fuel cells. Mechanistic investigation of reaction products detected by the chromatographic analysis will give insight into fundamental aspects of catalysis, allowing comparison different catalysts in terms of high electrocatalytic efficiency in physiological condition.
Innovative research may also be focused at the nanoscale or molecular level. Examples of possible research emphases include the following areas: nanomaterials, biocatalysis, immo-bilization techniques (e.g. layer-by-layer self assembly of enzymes/ electron transfer mediator on electrode surface), electrochemical engineering, and nanotechnology.

We offer excellent working conditions and a state-of-the-art infrastructure in a highly dynamic and international environment at the forefront of research which is a hallmark of the research training group (GRK 1322 „Micro Energy Harvesting“) and laboratory for sensors at IMTEK. This opens the door to your scientific career. Collaborations with a network of excellent partner universities in different countries have been established.

Qualifications and skills:
• Recently finished an academic degree (Master degree, German Diploma or equivalent) in chemistry, physics or materials engineering is required with demonstrated capability and success in developing research at the interface of engineering and electrochemical/biochemical sciences.
• A strong background in chemistry and previous experience with electrochemical techniques is welcome.
• Highly motivated, fluent in English, good practical laboratory capabilities, and enthusiastic attitude.
• Have good interpersonal communication skills, especially with other PhD students within our research training group (Micro Energy Harvesting), and would excel in the multidisciplinary research environment.

Application: Send a single PDF via e-mail in German or English to Dr.-Ing. Laith Hussein(laith.hussein(a)fmf.uni-freiburg.de) including: (i) a covering letter (ii) detailed curriculum vitae (iii) a short description of previous research (1-2 Pages). (iv) two letters of recommendation or the names and contact details of two potential academic referees.

Reply by: The position is immediately available and the applications will be evaluated continuously until the position is filled. More details on the project and about our research group can be found at: http://www.imtek.de/MEH .