PhD Position in Magnetoelectric Nanoparticles for Enhanced Catalysis

PhD Position in Magnetoelectric Nanoparticles for Enhanced Catalysis

Have you ever dreamed of controlling chemical reactions using magnetic fields? With magnetoelectric composite nanoparticles acting as catalysts, this possibility has recently been demonstrated at ETH. In this PhD position, you would investigate the relationship between characteristics of magnetoelectric composite nanoparticles and the magnetic stimuli that we apply to them to trigger their catalytic effects. By leveraging this knowledge, we hope to further enhance their catalytic abilities.

This project is a collaboration between Dr. Michael Christiansen of the Medical Microsystems Lab in D-HEST and Prof. Salvador Pané of the Multi-Scale Robotics Lab in D-MAVT. Prof. Pané would be your formal doctoral supervisor, but you would work in the new GLC building under the day-to-day supervision of Dr. Christiansen. You would be a doctoral student in D-MAVT.

For examples of prior work from Prof. Pané’s team on catalysis with magnetoelectric composite nanoparticles, see: Magnetoelectric Effect in Hydrogen Harvesting and Magnetoelectrically Driven Catalytic Degradation of Organics .

This PhD topic will involve learning some established nanoparticle synthesis techniques, as well as developing some new ones. Characterization of the resulting nanoparticles will be an important aspect of the project, including techniques such as electron microscopy, magnetometry, and others. Finally, you would need to help design and perform experiments that allow us to measure catalytic effects under various magnetic stimuli. The project is highly interdisciplinary, so an openness and capability to learn is essential.

• MSc degree in a related field (e.g. materials science, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, etc.)
• Ability to begin sometime in the next 6 months (sooner is better)
• Persistence, willingness to learn
• Training or prior familiarity with at least some laboratory chemical processes
• Ideally, previous experience in nanoparticle synthesis
• Ideally, previous experience with nanoparticle characterization

• A unique collaborative PhD position that would put you at the interface of two exciting labs
• Frequent mentorship and practical support from a senior scientist (Dr. Michael Christiansen)
• Opportunities to learn or hone skills in particle synthesis, characterization, etc
• An open and supportive research environment

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich
In line with our values , ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

If you are interested in joining our team, please submit your complete application online through this job portal, including the following documents:

• motivation letter
• curriculum vitae
• academic transcripts
• contact details for at least two academic references (They will be contacted if you advance in the interview process.)

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or post will not be considered.

Further information about doctoral admission in D-MAVT can be found here . Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Michael Christiansen via email at Write an email (no applications, please).

Apply online now

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In your application, please refer to myScience.ch and referenceJobID65207.