PostDoc - Green H2 generation. Chiral mofs with spin filter capability and their implementation and use as electrodes for efficient electrolysisis of the water molecule (Closed)

The industrial implementation of hydrogen-based technology must necessarily be accompanied by a reduction in the energy cost and an increase in the yield associated with the electrolysis process of the water molecule. This cost is due, among others, to the need for an overpotential to overcome the energy barrier derived from the spin-forbidden nature of the water molecule breakdown reaction, and the low yield is due to the undesired formation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) by means of a parallel competing reaction at the anode of the electrochemical cell. That is, the formation of oxygen (and thus H2 gas) and H2O2 is anti-correlated, the formation of one being at the expense of the other.

The present research project is focused on the development of a water electrolysis system enhanced by the use of anodes coated with spin filter materials. The project will try to determine the optimal way to deposit chiral materials on the anode, as well as the subsequent electrochemical characterization of the anode and the energy efficiency of the new system in relation to a traditional cell both in terms of voltage and amount of H2 generated.

As part of the strategies to promote decarbonization in the energy sector as a whole, the project will enable progress to be made in the use of cleaner and more sustainable alternative forms of energy, always bearing in mind the sustainability of the overall process.

PhD in Chemistry. Experience in electrochemistry and chiral materials.

• Contract duration: 1 year (possibility to extend up to 3 years)
• Estimated annual gross salary: Salary is commensurate with qualifications and consistent with our pay scales
• Target start date: 2023/07/01

We provide a highly stimulating research environment, and unique professional career development opportunities.

We offer and promote a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applicants regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity.

Interested candidates should submit an updated CV and a brief statement of interest to the following application email below. 

Reference letters are welcome but not indispensable.

The reference of the specific opening to which the candidate is applying should be stated in the subject line, and the application must be received before the application deadline.

Although candidates are welcome to contact the project supervisors to know further details about the proposed research activity, please be aware that the application will be evaluated only if it is submitted directly to the email address listed below as application email.

• Reference: 2023/65
• Application deadline: 2023/06/06
• Application email: jobs.research@dipc.org

Applications received by the deadline will be evaluated by a Committee designed by the DIPC board on the basis of the following criteria:

• CV of the candidate (40%)
• Adequacy of the candidate’s scientific background to the project (40%)
• Reference letters (10%)
• Other: Diversity in gender, race, nationality, etc. (10%)

Evaluation results will be communicated to the candidates soon after. Positions will only be filled if qualified candidates are found.

The DIPC may revoke its decision if the candidate fails to join by the appointed time, in which case the position will be awarded to the candidate with the next highest score, provided it is above 50 (out of 100).

However, the selected candidate may keep the position if, in the opinion of the Selection Committee, the candidate duly justifies the reasons why he or she cannot join before the specified deadline, and as long as the project allows it.

This project has been supported by MCIN with funding from European Union NextGenerationEU (PRTR-C17.I1)