Research Fellow (Electrocatalysis)

The School of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) provides a vibrant and nurturing environment for staff and students to carry out inter-disciplinary research in key areas such as Computational Materials Science, Characterisation Materials Science, Defence Composite Materials, Functional Composite Materials, Energy, Nanomaterials, Low Dimensional Materials, Biomaterials Materials, Biological Materials, Bioinspired Materials and Sustainable Materials.

The role requires in-depth expertise in electrochemical systems, advanced materials characterization, and multidisciplinary knowledge spanning chemistry and materials science. The successful applicant will contribute to investigations of molecular-scale catalytic mechanisms relevant to energy conversion technologies, as well as the design and synthesis of polymer-based electrolytes.  

Key objectives include establishing correlations between the structural and electronic properties of heterogeneous catalysts and their performance, and designing polymer electrolytes with efficient proton and electron conductivity and reduced ohmic losses.

Key Responsibilities:

The position requires a strong background in electrochemistry, materials science, chemistry, and materials physics. The successful candidate will contribute to advanced research in small molecule electrocatalysis, particularly in applications related to polymer membrane-based electrolysers. The project will focus on designing novel electrode materials for catalyzing small molecules and for boosting effective proton and electron conduction. In addition to providing day-to-day support to the research team, the candidate may, depending on their experience, undertake independent, open-ended research projects under the team's supervision.

Job Requirements:

• A PhD degree in Chemistry, Physics, Solid-state physics, electrochemistry, Materials Science, or similar fields

• Strong analytical and conceptual abilities

• Ability to work independently or in a team in the realization of the R&D work

• Ability to publish conference/journal papers

• Ability and willingness to train and advice graduate students on relevant procedures

• Regular reports and good documentation of work are expected

• Excellent oral and written communication skills

• Extensive research experience in electrocatalysis and demonstrated expertise in catalyst design for polymer membrane-based electrolysers

• Strong ability to work as team member in supporting experimental research

• Strong independent research ability    

We regret to inform that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.