Postdoctoral Position; f​/m​/d Operando Studies Tandem Catalysts Chemical Utilization

The Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society for the Advancement of Science () is one of the most internationally renowned research institutes. More than 400 employees in 5 scientific departments conduct and facilitate top-level research on historic grounds in Berlin-Dahlem, which is unique worldwide.

Within the project “Membrane-assisted Ethylene Synthesis over Nanostructured Tandem Catalysts” (Mem Cat) funded by the European Commission we have an open.

The long‑term vision of Mem Cat is to give access to green e‑Polymers by providing carbon‑negative plastic precursors using anthropogenic CO₂ and green hydrogen. Mem Cat targets to deliver a proof‑of‑concept for the direct conversion of carbon dioxide to ethylene by realizing tandem catalysts, which through nano‑structuring will allow for consecutive CO₂‑to‑methanol and methanol‑to‑ethylene transformations to occur in the same operational window.

The successful candidate will contribute to a fundamental understanding of the parameters governing the reactions through detailed mechanistic and operando studies of the tandem catalysts and thus contribute to catalyst design.

We are looking for a highly motivated, creative researcher who can work independently and is able to quickly become familiar with new methods. Experimental work will focus on catalytic testing, operando Diffuse Reflectance Infrared Fourier Transform Spectroscopy (DRIFTS), UV‑Vis and Raman spectroscopy under pressure and in combination with product analysis, for example by gas chromatography. Participation in synchrotron‑based experiments is planned.

The investigations are carried out in close cooperation with theory. An interest in modern methods of data analysis is therefore highly welcome. The required qualifications include a PhD in Chemistry, Physics or Materials Science, as well as a solid, proven research background in Inorganic Chemistry and Heterogeneous Catalysis. This should be reflected in a strong publication record. Other requirements include a high degree of flexibility and commitment, excellent teamwork skills, and very good written and spoken English.

Fluency in German would also be an advantage.

The postdoctoral position starts in June 2026 and has a duration of 2 years. The work location is the CSMB building near the synchrotron source BESSY II in Berlin Adlershof. Berlin is a large, cosmopolitan and tolerant city that offers you a wide variety of culture, art, music, and outdoor opportunities.

Please submit your application via our online application portal as soon as possible including the following documents:

• Curriculum vitae
• List of publications
• Names and contact of three references

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

For more information, please contact:
Dr. Annette Trunschke ()
phone:  / 4458

Max Planck Society

The Max Planck Society endeavors to achieve gender equality and diversity. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society aims to increase the participation of women in research. Therefore, applications by women are particularly welcome. The Max Planck Society is also committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals.