Full Time Postdoctoral Position: Lab-Based Ambient-Pressure XPS for Photoelectrochemical Energy Conversion / Design of Tandem Demonstrator

14.10.2025, Wissenschaftliches Personal

The BMFTR Junior Research Group CO2UPLED at the Technical University of Munich is seeking a postdoctoral fellow to develop in-situ photoelectrochemical cells for integration into an ambient-pressure XPS setup and to design tandem photoanode-photocathode systems for solar fuel synthesis. The position offers a stimulating research environment, competitive salary, and opportunities for teaching and professional development within TUM’s multidisciplinary setting.

The BMFTR Junior Research Group CO₂UPLED is actively seeking a talented postdoctoral fellow to integrate in-situ photoelectrochemical cells into an ambient-pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) setup and to lead the design and development of tandem photoanode-photocathode systems for photoelectrochemical solar fuels synthesis.

CO₂UPLED is committed to a knowledge-based approach to interface design, aiming to strategically integrate novel thin-film photoelectrode materials based on oxynitrides, transparent catalyst layers, and electrolytes. The methodology employed includes the creation of systematic material libraries, advanced spectroscopy methods under reaction conditions, and theoretical modeling. Ultimately, the project aims to seamlessly incorporate photoelectrode-catalyst couplings into tandem systems for water splitting and CO₂ reduction, utilizing sunlight as the exclusive energy source. The group is led by Dr. Verena Streibel and hosted by the Chair for Experimental Semiconductor Physics at the Walter Schottky Institute of the Technical University of Munich (TUM). We offer a stimulating research environment in a multidisciplinary lab in one of the highest-ranked universities in Europe.

Applicant’s project

The focus of the position is on the hands-on establishment of photoelectrochemical cells to be integrated into a lab-based ambient-pressure XPS setup. In addition, the position encompasses the system design, life-cycle analysis, and demonstrator construction of tandem photoanode-photocathode systems based on thin-film photoelectrodes.

Applicant’s profile

The candidate should ideally hold a PhD degree in applied physics, (electro)chemical engineering, materials science & engineering, or a related field. They should have a strong background in photoelectron spectroscopy and (photo)electrochemistry. Being familiar with CAD programs and having knowledge of PVD-based thin-film semiconductor fabrication and characterization is a plus.

Our offer

We offer a full-time position with salary according to the TV-L E13 tariff in Bavaria. TUM postdocs have the possibility to take part in the training programs offered by the TUM Talent Factory to strengthen their professional profile. In addition, the candidate will have the opportunity to participate in teaching activities in the Physics department of TUM. The position is immediately open and available for an initial period of 2 years but may be extended.

Your application

In their application, interested candidates should enclose a curriculum vitae, a letter of motivation (max. 1 page), a transcript of records, a complete list of publications, names and contact details of two academic references, and a sample publication. Applications should be sent in a single pdf file to Dr. Verena Streibel (verena.streibel@wsi.tum.de). Only complete applications will receive full consideration.

Kontakt: verena.streibel@wsi.tum.de