PhD Candidate / PhD Candidate

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

100% Position, 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 thrilled to announce an interdisciplinary PhD opportunity focused on mechanochemical processes driving radical formation and redox cycling in the deep subsurface. This research has significant implications for geochemistry, geophysics, biogeochemistry, planetary habitability, and sustainable energy resources. The successful candidate will join a dynamic research team examining how crustal faulting, tectonics, and mineral fracturing generate reactive unpaired electron radical centers in silica-rich rocks. These silica radicals can react with water to produce natural hydrogen, reactive oxygen species, and unique silica surface moieties. These processes may fuel microbial metabolisms and influence subsurface ecosystems. The project will explore the formation, accumulation, migration, and potential exploitation of natural hydrogen as a clean energy source, addressing fundamental questions about mechanochemical reactions in natural materials and energy flow in the Earth's deep environments, including its relevance to extraterrestrial environments and future energy strategies. For more information on this project, visit: Project Details.

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 using electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy and imaging
• Characterization of silica, water, hydrogen-based, and oxygen-based reaction products using multinuclear Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) in both 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 integrate experimental simulations (e.g., ball milling, high-pressure fracture experiments), magnetic-resonance-based characterization, geochemical analysis, and microbial ecology approaches, along with modeling hydrogen migration and storage potential.

Profile

We are seeking a highly motivated and self-organized individual with:

• A strong interest in interdisciplinary research bridging chemistry, physics, geochemistry, geomechanics, microbiology, and energy science
• A background in chemistry, physics, geochemistry, mineral physics, biogeochemistry, or planetary science
• Experience with experimental techniques, including:
• 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), or electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Familiarity with analytical tools such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and 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

The position offers a dynamic and stimulating work environment with state-of-the-art computational and laboratory infrastructure at ETH Zurich, particularly within the GEG group. Our reactive transport laboratory includes advanced equipment such as an XRCT system for reactive transport experiments, and a laser laboratory capable of Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) and Laser-Induced Fluorescence (LIF). We are expanding our laboratory to include low- and high-field multinuclear Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Imaging (NMR/MRI), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), and dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) instruments, further enhancing our capabilities for conducting reactive experiments and quantifying a wide range of components in three spatial dimensions. The GEG group values an open and inclusive culture.

The position is 100% with a competitive salary in accordance with ETH Zurich standards. The contract duration is one year, with the potential for annual extensions based on project needs and employee performance. The anticipated start date for this position is March 1, 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 foster a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and thrive. Sustainability is a core value for us as we consistently strive for a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We invite you to apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. The application should include:

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

For any inquiries, please contact Dr. Adam Altenhof at adam.altenhof@eaps.ethz.ch or Dr. Xiang-Zhao Kong at xkong@ethz.ch.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is a globally leading university specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our outstanding education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct knowledge transfer to society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries consider our university a hub for independent thinking and an environment that encourages excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we actively forge connections worldwide, collaborating to develop solutions for today's and tomorrow's global challenges.