PhD position in local pH effects in electrochemical and thermochemical catalysis

23.10.2026, Academic staff

This is a DFG-funded project where we will study the impact of local pH values on both electrochemical and thermochemical reactions. Proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) reactions underpin many catalytic reactions and are explicitly pH-dependent. We will develop electrodes and electrochemical methods that provide a direct measurement of the pH value at the catalyst surface.

Ph.D. position on local pH effects in electro and thermocatalysis
The Hülsey lab is recruiting a Ph.D. student at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) at the earliest starting date, ideally early 2027. This is a DFG-funded project where we will study the impact of local pH values on both electrochemical and thermochemical reactions. Proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) reactions underpin many catalytic reactions and are explicitly pH-dependent. We will develop electrodes and electrochemical methods that provide a direct measurement of the pH value at the catalyst surface.

Duration & salary: 3 years; 67% TV-L E13

We are seeking candidates with:
- An excellent academic track record
- A master’s degree in chemistry, chemical engineering or adjacent areas
- Curiosity and enthusiasm for chemistry and chemical engineering
- Good communication skills (written and oral) in English (German skills are optional)
- A wide range of backgrounds, students with a broad range of backgrounds in the chemical sciences are encouraged to apply

What we offer:
- Excellent training and mentorship in different areas of catalysis
- Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and infrastructure
- Networking opportunities (both in Europe and internationally)
- Life in one of the most livable cities in Europe
- A collaborative, supportive group where you work closely with me and your colleagues

What you will learn:
- Catalyst synthesis
- Spectroscopic characterization
- Reaction product quantification
- Electrochemical mass spectrometry
- (Electrochemical) reactor design and optimization
- Surface kinetic measurements

Interested candidates should directly reach out to me m.huelsey(at)tum.de with the following documents as single pdf file:
- A current CV including the contact details of 2-3 references (include their name, their current positions and affiliations as well as their email address)
- A maximum two-page statement outlining your interest in doing a PhD as well as your broader research interests

Successful candidates will be invited for virtual interviews. Review of the applications will begin immediately and the position remains open until filled. Applications before November 30th will be given priority. TUM strives to raise the proportion of women in its workforce and explicitly encourages applications from qualified women. Applications from disabled persons with essentially the same qualifications will be given preference.

Kontakt: m.huelsey@tum.de

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