PostDoc on Low-temperature CO2 hydrogenation to methanol: exploring the potential of metal sulfide catalysts (22.5 months)

Short introduction

Are you fascinated by the challenges of the energy transition? We are looking for a motivated postdoctoral research fellow, who will work in a team of scientists towards the development of sustainable methanol from CO2 and hydrogen. An inherent challenge is to obtain high methanol selectivity. As methanol formation is thermodynamically favored at low temperatures, it is imperative to develop novel catalysts with sufficient activity below 200C°C. In this project, we will develop stable metal sulfide catalysts for the production of methanol in a team of researchers from academia and industry.

Job Description

Inorganic Materials and Catalysis

We are a vibrant research group focusing on the fundamental and applied aspects of catalyzed reactions relevant to a clean and sustainable future. Our main interest lies in the interface of heterogeneous catalysis and materials design with a strong emphasis on the elucidation of the mechanism of catalytic reactions. By combining a wide range of synthetic, spectroscopic, computational modeling, and reaction engineering approaches, we study nanoscale aspects of the chemical transformation of molecules on catalytic surfaces. By understanding nanoscale structure-performance relationships, we aim for rational design and synthesis of optimum catalytic sites for relevant reaction chemistry. Research projects target current industrial chemical processes as well as desired chemical processes that contribute to a more sustainable future based on sustainable sources of energy and renewable chemicals.

The Inorganic Materials and Catalysis team consists of 6 scientific staff members (1 full professors, 2 assistant professors, one research fellow), 4 supporting staff members, ~25 PhD students and postdoctoral research fellows as well as master and bachelor students. We see ourselves as passionate scientists, working together in teams to produce meaningful insights for the improvement of society. Our group has a very international character, and we regularly host guests from all over the world. We value diversity and welcome and support all identities in our research group.

Job Description

CO2 hydrogenation to methanol can become a key technology in the fight against climate change. If methanol can be manufactured from CO2 waste with renewably sourced H2, the carbon footprint of various chemicals and fuels can be significantly decreased. CO2 hydrogenation is preferably carried out at low temperatures to achieve high methanol yield. However, low reaction temperatures imply kinetic constraints, which more active catalysts can overcome. Typical methanol synthesis catalysts include Cu-ZnO (commercial for CO hydrogenation) and promoted metal oxides (e.g., Pd-In2O3). This project will investigate metal sulfides, for its performance in CO2 hydrogenation, following promising results in recent literature. So far, little is known about the underlying chemistry of CO2 hydrogenation on these materials. Through a combination of preparative approaches, catalyst characterization and activity testing, we wish to explore optimum morphology of metal sulfides for CO2 hydrogenation to methanol.

This project is part of the Advanced Research Center Chemical Building Blocks Consortium, which is the Netherlands’ national research center for circular and sustainable chemistry. Together with partners from industry, we aim to greenify the chemical industry with a focus on energy transition, feedstock transition and materials transition. The available project fits within the themes of energy and feedstock transition.

Job Requirements

• A PhD degree in heterogeneous catalysis, preferably with experience in catalyst synthesis and/or metal sulfide catalysis.
• A research-oriented attitude.
• Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team and interested in collaborating with industrial partners.
• Fluent in spoken and written English (C1 level).

Conditions of Employment

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for 2 years.
• Salary in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale 10 (min. € 4,060 max. € 5,331).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High-quality training programs on general skills, didactics and topics related to research and valorization.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• Partially paid parental leave and an allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs. 
• A TU/e Postdoc Association that helps you to build a stronger and broader academic and personal network, and offers tailored support, training and workshops.
• A Staff Immigration Team is available for international candidates, as are a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) and a compensation for moving expenses.

Information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact the hiring manager prof.dr.ir. E.J.M. (Emiel) Hensen, e.j.m.hensen@tue.nl or +31 40 247 5178.

Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. You can also contact HRServices.Helix@tue.nl.

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application

We invite you to submit a complete application using the apply-button. The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references.
• List of five self-selected ‘best publications’.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.