Master Thesis – Nanoscale Analysis of Membrane Electrode Assemblies

Your Job:

You will focus on the research and development of proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzers. Using advanced atomic force microscopy (AFM), you will analyze membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs), which are the core of the electrolyzer. This allows the analysis of the nanoelectrical and nanomechanical properties of the catalyst layers and provides insight into the ionomer and catalyst surface composition. The goal is to detect and understand changes in the ionomer and catalyst particles caused by degradation, and ultimately reduce degradation mechanisms in the future. This could increase the durability of the cost intensive MEAs and contribute to a successful large scale industrial application of PEM electrolysis. Your tasks will include the following:

• Familiarization with and literature research on AFM and MEAs
• Performing and evaluating nanomechanical and nanoelectrical advanced atomic force microscopy experiments
• Implementation of in-situ experiments in liquid or humid environment
• Correlation of results with data from other analytical methods (SEM, nanoindentation,…) provided by colleagues
• Documentation of your work and results as part of your master thesis

Your Profile:

• Ongoing Master studies in chemistry, physics, material science, chemical engineering, process engineering or a comparable discipline
• Knowledge of AFM, nanomechanics, and/or electrolysis technologies are advantageous
• First experience in laboratory work, ideally in the area of physical chemistry
• Programming skills (ideally Python) are advantageous but not necessarily needed
• Independent and responsible way of working, willingness to work and a high degree of team spirit
• Very good written and oral communication skills in German and English

Even if you do not fulfill the requirements of this position 100%, we are happy to receive your application. We want you to fit in as a person, not just based on your profile.

Our Offer:

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We support you in your work with:

• Ideal conditions for gaining practical experience alongside your studies
• Comprehensive training courses and individual opportunities for personal and professional further development
• Extensive company health management
• Ideal conditions for balancing work and private life, as well as a family-friendly corporate policy
• Flexible work (location) arrangements, e.g. remote work

In addition to exciting tasks and a collaborative working atmosphere in Jülich, we have a lot more to offer: https://go.fzj.de/benefits

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.