PhD Position; m​/f​/d): Advanced Characterization Methods Fuel Cell Membranes

PhD Position (m/f/d):
Advanced Characterization Methods for Fuel Cell Membranes

NEU

The Chair for Photovoltaic Energy Conversion at INATECH is looking for a highly motivated PhD candidate (m/f/d) to develop and apply new analysis methods for fuel cell membranes, with a focus on catalyst coated membranes (CCM). PhD Position (m/f/d):
Advanced Characterization Methods for Fuel Cell Membranes

We are looking for a highly motivated PhD candidate to develop and apply new analysis methods for fuel cell membranes, with a focus on catalyst coated membranes (CCM).

Your work will include:

• Development of innovative impulse thermography method for in situ and ex situ characterization
• Selection, development and optimization of optical measurement techniques such as laser scatterometry, hyperspectral imaging, ellipsometry, and polarimetry
• Advancement of additional optical methods (including spectroscopy and imaging techniques) for comprehensive membrane analysis
• Implementation of additional reference methods to validate and benchmark the new approaches
• Evaluation and processing of measurement data, including application of image analysis, point spread function analysis, and AI-based tools
• Programming work and scientific computing for data evaluation and method development
• Close collaboration with the research production line for CCMs and metrology experts at Fraunhofer ISE
• Joint work with strong European partners from academia and industry within collaborative projects

Your profile:

• University degree (Master or equivalent) in physics or engineering (e.g., electrical, mechanical, chemical, materials, or related field)
• Strong interest in experimental work as well as in the development of measurement techniques and analysis methods for energy and fuel cell technologies
• Experience in at least one of the following areas is an advantage:
• Optical measurement techniques (e.g., spectroscopy, imaging methods)
• Membrane or CCM manufacturing
• Evaluation and processing of measurement data (e.g., image analysis, AI-based tools, point spread function)
• Scientific computing, programming experience, or data analysis/processing
• Analysis and characterization of functional materials or membranes
• Team-oriented working style and strong communication skills in an international research environment
• Good command of English, both written and spoken

What we offer:

• The opportunity to work at the interface of fundamental research and industrial application
• Access to a state-of-the-art research production line for CCMs and advanced metrology infrastructure at Fraunhofer ISE
• Intensive collaboration with leading European research institutions and industrial partners

Start date: As soon as possible.

The position is limited to 31. Dezember 2028. The salary will be determined in accordance with E13 TV-L.

We will be particularly pleased to receive applications from women for the position advertised here.

Bewerbung

Please send your application in English including supporting documents citing the reference number , by 22. Februar 2026 at the latest. Please send your application to the following address in written or electronic form:

University of Freiburg
Faculty of Engineering
INATECH - Chair of Photovoltaic Energy Conversion
Dr. Jonas Schön
Emmy-Noether-Str. 27
9110 Freiburg

Für weitere Informationen: Please contact Dr. Jonas Schön on the phone number  or E-Mail jo

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