Institute of Catalysis Research und Technology (IKFT) The project is part of the Collaborative Research Center "Tracking the Active Site in Heterogeneous Catalysis" (CRC 1441 TrackAct), funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG). The goal is to better understand the relationship between the structure and properties of catalysts used in emissions control. To this end, you will synthesize atomically precise precious metal clusters and monodisperse nanoparticles with tunable size, shape, and composition, which you will then use as building blocks for the production of defined model catalysts. Based on catalytic tests and in-depth structural characterization, you will derive structure-property relationships for reactions in the field of emissions control in order to develop improved catalysts with low precious metal content in the future.Your duties will include the following:Development of novel synthesis processes for precious metal clusters/nanoparticles in the liquid phaseProduction of model catalysts using the precursor conceptCharacterization of the prepared clusters, nanoparticles, and model catalystsUse of the catalysts in catalytic tests in collaboration with project partnersPublication of research results and active participation in national and international conferencesThe position offers the opportunity for part-time doctoral studies. Salary Salary category 13 TV-L, depending on the fulfillment of professional and personal requirements. Contract duration April 30, 2028. Application up to May 06, 2025 Contact person in line-management For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Silke Behrens, silke.behrens@kit.edu.
