PhD Candidate in Structure-Activity Relationships for CO2 Capture Materials / PhD Candidate in Structure-Activity Relationships for CO2 Capture Materials

PhD Position: Structure-Activity Relationships for CO2 Capture Materials

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Laboratory of Energy Science and Engineering (LESE, ETH Zürich) invites candidates to apply for a PhD position in the field of CO2 capture, focusing on structure-performance relationships. At LESE, our research aims to achieve a fundamental understanding of materials that facilitate the capture and/or conversion of CO2. This PhD position is funded by the National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) Separations.

Job Description

• Within a broader research program that integrates process modeling, computational materials screening and discovery, experimental synthesis, and mechanistic and performance assessment under application-relevant conditions for separation technologies, this project aims to accelerate the identification of novel materials for CO2 capture.
• This PhD project combines the synthesis of model materials with their operando characterization and molecular modeling to identify new CO2 sorbent families and establish structure-performance relationships.
• The experimental techniques employed in this PhD position will focus on (operando) X-ray absorption spectroscopy, X-ray total scattering, and vibrational spectroscopies.

Profile

• Applicants for this PhD position should possess an excellent MSc degree in Chemical Engineering, Material Science, or Chemistry.
• Experience and knowledge in material synthesis and/or (structural) material characterization are highly valued.
• We seek highly motivated, committed, and creative individuals who excel in teamwork and possess outstanding communication skills.
• Working within a top-level research environment equipped with advanced laboratory infrastructure, candidates will have a unique opportunity to enhance their research capabilities.
• The position is available from May 2026 onwards.

Workplace

To be announced.

We Offer

• An exciting working environment.
• Opportunities to learn cutting-edge techniques.
• Perspectives for career development.
• A diverse and interdisciplinary team.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In alignment 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 upheld. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to discover how we maintain a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us - we are constantly striving toward a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application. Please apply online using the form below.

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for our excellent education and cutting-edge fundamental research, we effectively transfer new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that fosters independent thought and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe with connections worldwide, we collaborate to develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s global challenges.