PhD Position in Mechanical Engineering

ETH Zurich

Employment Type: Full-time (100%)

Location: Zurich, Switzerland

Institution: ETH Zurich

Position Type: Fixed-term PhD Position

Overview

The Electrochemical Energy Systems Laboratory at ETH Zurich is seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join its research on electrocatalytic energy conversion.

The research group investigates how electrolyte environments govern reaction mechanisms, kinetics, and product selectivity at electrochemical interfaces. By combining electrochemistry with advanced operando characterization techniques, the laboratory uncovers fundamental mechanisms that guide the rational design of next-generation electrochemical energy conversion systems.

Project Background

Electrochemical energy conversion offers a promising pathway toward sustainable chemical manufacturing powered by renewable electricity. However, controlling reaction pathways and product selectivity remains a major scientific challenge because electrochemical reactions are governed by complex interfacial processes that are still not fully understood.

This PhD project focuses on investigating how electrolyte environments influence reaction mechanisms in the electrochemical CO₂ reduction reaction (CO₂RR) and related electrocatalytic processes.

The project combines advanced operando characterization techniques, including:

  • FTIR
  • DEMS
  • EQCM
  • GC
  • Synchrotron-based characterization methods (where appropriate)

with detailed electrochemical studies to uncover the fundamental principles governing electrochemical interfaces.

Job Description

The successful candidate will:

  • Design and perform electrochemical experiments to investigate electrocatalytic reaction mechanisms.
  • Employ advanced operando characterization techniques to probe electrochemical interfaces.
  • Analyze and interpret experimental data to develop mechanistic understanding.
  • Contribute to the development of new concepts for electrolyte-controlled electrocatalysis.
  • Present research at international conferences.
  • Publish findings in leading scientific journals.
  • Collaborate with researchers within the laboratory and with international collaborators.

Candidate Profile

Applicants should:

  • Hold (or be close to completing) a Master's degree in:Be highly motivated, curious, and self-driven.
    • Chemistry
    • Materials Science
    • Chemical Engineering
    • Process Engineering
    • Or a closely related field.
  • Enjoy addressing fundamental scientific questions.
  • Thrive in an interdisciplinary and collaborative research environment.

Advantageous Experience (Not Required)

Experience in one or more of the following areas is beneficial:

  • Electrochemistry and/or electrocatalysis.
  • In situ or operando characterization techniques.
  • Synchrotron-based characterization methods.

What ETH Zurich Offers

ETH Zurich provides:

  • The opportunity to conduct impactful research at one of the world's leading universities.
  • Strong support for professional development.
  • Public transportation season ticket benefits.
  • Car-sharing programs.
  • Extensive sports facilities through ASVZ.
  • Childcare support.
  • Attractive pension benefits.
  • A collaborative, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating research environment that encourages scientific curiosity, creativity, and independence.

Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to:

  • Promoting equality of opportunity.
  • Valuing diversity.
  • Fostering an inclusive working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected.
  • Advancing sustainability as a core institutional value while working toward a climate-neutral future.

Application Documents

Applicants should submit one merged PDF file titled using their last name, initials, and application date (for example: 20251201_SmithJT_application) containing the following documents in order:

  1. Cover letter describing research achievements and research interests.
  2. Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
  3. Transcripts of all degrees (in English).
  4. Names and contact information of at least two references.
  5. Representative published research work (papers or thesis, if available).

Additional Information

In the Additional Information field of the online application, applicants should specify:

  • MSc degree information (university, degree date, GPA, relevant experience).
  • BSc degree information (university, degree date, GPA, relevant experience).

Application Process

Applications must be submitted exclusively through the ETH Zurich online application portal.

Applications submitted via email or postal mail will not be considered.

For further information about the research group, applicants may visit the group's website.

Questions regarding the position should be directed to:

Melanie Darugna

Email: mdarugna@ethz.ch

(No applications via email.)

Application Deadline

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. The university is internationally recognized for:

  • Excellence in education.
  • Cutting-edge fundamental research.
  • Effective transfer of scientific knowledge to society.

More than 30,000 people from over 120 countries study and work at ETH Zurich, creating an environment that promotes independent thinking, innovation, and scientific excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, ETH Zurich collaborates globally to develop solutions for the major challenges facing society today and in the future.

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