项目介绍

2026年3月20日

What you will do

During the electrochemical production of green hydrogen, trace metals from the electrolyte such as Fe and Mo are incorporated into the electrodes. This incorporation has a strong effect on the catalytic activity of the system, making it a powerful tool to boost the efficiency of the process. The goal of this project is to gain better control over trace-metal-boosted catalysis by unravelling the  surface chemistry of metal incorporation and the molecular-level mechanisms through which the incorporated metals change the electrocatalytic activity. To this end, you will use the advanced in situ X-ray spectroscopic methods developed in our group. These methods make it possible to track the individual chemistries of every element at the electrode-electrolyte interface, enabling you to follow the metal incorporation process “live” during electrocatalysis, and to study how the incorporated metals change the (catalytic) surface chemistry of the electrode. You will have the opportunity to work with both our in-house X-ray spectroscopy set-ups as well as synchrotron facilities. Your work will be embedded in our group’s collaborative framework, allowing you to collaborate within the institute, with companies, and with the international research community. 

This project is a good match for you if you like:

• Understanding electrochemistry at the molecular level
• Working with advanced measurement techniques
• Working as a team, both within the group and in collaborations with other institutes

For more information about the project, please contact Dr. Rik Mom (r.v.mom@lic.leidenuniv.nl“>r.v.mom@lic.leidenuniv.nl). 

What you bring

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate, who has:

•              a Master’s degree in Chemistry or Physics, or a related discipline;

•              A strong interest in spectroscopy and electrochemistry;

•              Excellent proficiency in English;

•              Good technical experimental skills.

You should feel comfortable working in a collaborative environment with complex experiments. Analytical thinking, creativity, and an independent working attitude are highly valued. Experience with electrochemistry, vacuum equipment, or in situ spectroscopy is considered an advantage.

Want to apply or find out more?

  If you want to apply straight away, click the application button.