PhD Candidate in Mechanochemical Hydrogen Production in Natural Silica-Rich Rocks

PhD Position in Mechanochemical Hydrogen Production in Natural Silica-Rich Rocks

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The ETH Zurich Geothermal Energy & Geofluids (GEG) Group in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences investigates subsurface reactive fluid and geothermal energy transfer, developing and employing computer simulations, laboratory experiments, and field analyses. Our aim is to gain fundamental insights and develop sustainable technologies to address societal needs.

Project Background

We are excited to announce an interdisciplinary PhD opportunity focused on mechanochemical processes driving radical formation and redox cycling in the deep subsurface, with implications for geochemistry, geophysics, biogeochemistry, planetary habitability, and sustainable energy resources. The successful candidate will join a dynamic research team investigating how crustal faulting, tectonics, and mineral fracturing generate reactive unpaired electron radical centers in silica-rich rocks. These silica radicals may react with water to form natural hydrogen, reactive oxygen species, unique silica surface moieties, and other products. These processes may fuel microbial metabolisms and shape subsurface ecosystems. The project may explore the formation, accumulation, migration, and potential exploitation of natural hydrogen as a clean energy source. This research addresses fundamental questions about mechanochemical reactions in natural materials and energy flow in Earth's deep environments and its relevance to extraterrestrial environments and future energy strategies.

Job Description

The PhD project will explore:

• Mechanochemical radical generation during rock fracturing and its role in water splitting to form hydrogen and reactive oxygen species.
• Characterization of radical centers in natural rock samples with electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy and imaging.
• Characterization of silica, water, hydrogen-based, and oxygen-based reaction products with multinuclear Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) both in solution and solid state.
• Abiotic redox processes involving iron and other transition metals in fractured rock systems.
• Coupling among geomechanical stress, geochemical gradients, and microbial activity in deep subsurface environments.
• Formation, accumulation, and migration of natural hydrogen in geological reservoirs and its potential for human energy use.
• Implications for early life and habitability on Earth and other planetary bodies.

The work will combine experimental simulations (e.g., ball milling, high-pressure fracture experiments), magnetic-resonance-based characterization, geochemical analysis, and microbial ecology approaches, alongside modeling hydrogen migration and storage potential.

Profile

We seek a highly motivated and self-organized individual with:

• Strong interest in interdisciplinary research bridging chemistry, physics, geochemistry, geomechanics, microbiology, and energy science.
• Background in chemistry, physics, geochemistry, mineral physics, biogeochemistry, or planetary science.
• Experience with experimental techniques, such as:
  • High-energy milling or fracture stimulation.
  • Geochemical assays for H-, H-O- and redox states (e.g., X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, zeta potential).
  • Familiarity with liquid- or solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
• Familiarity with analytical tools: X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray computed tomography (XRCT).
• Expertise in designing and performing high-temperature and high-pressure in-situ experiments is advantageous.
• Fluency in English (both written and spoken).

Workplace

We provide a dynamic and exciting work environment with cutting-edge computational and laboratory infrastructure at ETH Zurich, particularly within the GEG group. The GEG Group’s reactive transport laboratory includes an XRCT system to conduct reactive transport experiments, as well as a laser laboratory equipped with Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) and Laser-Induced Fluorescence (LIF) experiment capabilities. We are also in the process of expanding the laboratory to include both low- and high-field multinuclear Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Imaging (NMR/MRI), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), and dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) instruments for conducting reactive experiments and quantifying a wide range of components across temperature and pressure in up to three spatial dimensions. The GEG Group values an open and inclusive culture.

The position is 100% with a competitive salary according to ETH Zurich standards. The position is for one year with the potential for annual extensions based on project needs and employee performance. The position start date is 1st of March 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us - we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application, including:

• A cover letter, describing your motivation, experience, and qualifications for the position.
• Your CV.
• If readily available, up to three professional reference letters; otherwise, please provide the contact information of up to three references.

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For questions, please reach out to Dr. Adam Altenhof at adam.altenhof@eaps.ethz.ch and/or Dr. Xiang-Zhao Kong at xkong@ethz.ch.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.