Research Associate in green electrosynthesis
Publicerad 2024-12-02
The Sustainable Electrochemistry Group is seeking a Research Associate in electrosynthesis of value-added chemicals, to be funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). You will use a combination of electrochemical, X-ray and infrared spectroscopy techniques to understand the fundamental bottlenecks in the activity and selectivity of catalysts for the electro-oxidation of propene to high value chemicals such as propylene glycol and acrylic acid. In addition to being an important feedstock that can yield high value products, propene also serves as a model molecule to more broadly understand electrosynthesis of organic molecules, since it has both a vinyl carbon and an allyl carbon.
You will work as part of a team that uses operando spectroscopic approaches to accelerate catalyst discovery for a range of applications, including electrochemical water oxidation, hydrogen evolution and biomass oxidation. You will also collaborate with the Grantham Institute – Climate Change and the Environment via research meetings, policy discussions and engaging in opportunities for cleantech innovations that may result from this project.
Your key responsibilities will include:
Designing an electrochemical testing system and benchmark the performance of state-of-the-art catalysts for propene electro oxidationFabricate thin films/nanoparticle alloys and test their performanceUse operando X-ray absorption and infrared spectroscopy to discern the mechanism, and identify key rate limiting stepsParticipate in on-going research projects in the area of biomass oxidation to value-added productsYou will have the opportunity to disseminate the work in conferences and journal publications Hold a PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related disciplineExperience of electrochemical characterisation techniquesPractical experience within a research environment and / or publication in relevant and refereed journalsPractical experience in applying spectroscopic techniques (X-ray absorption/infrared absorption spectroscopy) to electrochemical systems The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.The opportunity to use state-of-the-art facilities at the and to unravel complex catalytic mechanisms.The opportunity to collaborate with internationally reputed research groups and industrial partners in the sectorThe can offer media exposure, engagement training, links with the policy community, and interaction with a very interdisciplinary team focused on finding solutions to mitigate and/or adapt to climate change.The opportunity to engage with the , an Imperial College Network of Excellent which brings together researchers across departments who are passionate about using electrochemistry to solve global challengesGrow your career: Gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading as well as opportunities for promotion and progressionSector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
