Marie-Curie Network Doctoral Candidate (m/f/d) for Electrochemical Interfaces in Energy Storage
20.09.2026
01.11.2026
Full time (on site)
About us
Colloids and interfaces consist of very small or thin structures with linear dimensions between nanometers and micrometers. On the one hand, the possible structures represent a „world of hidden dimensions“. On the other hand, the dynamics and structures of these small entities determine the behavior of much larger systems such as organisms.
The Department of Colloid Chemistry (Director Prof. Dr. Markus Antonietti) at the Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces (MPICI) in Potsdam Science Park, Germany announces the position of a Doctoral Candidate (m/f/d) to join a European project network initiative (Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions) on the development of electrochemical interfaces in energy storage and conversion applications. The selected candidate will have the opportunity of joining the European network and is expected to pursue collaboration and secondments with the research network which includes partners from Germany, Sweden, Spain, Netherlands, Italy and more.
The successful candidate will be responsible for synthesizing metal-free composite anode materials for sodium-ion batteries by exploring novel synthesis approaches for the deposition of metal-free thin films on active materials and investigate the role of interfaces in electrochemical energy storage devices.
The successful candidate will be responsible for driving the development of metal-free thin films for electrochemical energy storage, including the materials synthesis, physico-chemical characterization, and electrochemical performances, analyses of results and literature review, preparation of periodical reports for the network, and publication of results in scientific journals. The candidate is also expected to join and actively participate in periodical seminars, meetings, and discussion with the team and the network.
Your tasks and qualifications
We are looking for a highly motivated student with a background in Chemistry, Materials Chemistry, or a closely related field. The candidate should have a profile showing the following qualities:
- A M.Sc. in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a closely related field
- A strong scientific track record ideally demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals
- Commitment to the project development and timelines, team collaboration, and mobility
- Preparation of periodical reports for the team, including data reports, analyses, and literature review
- Previous experience with organic thin film synthesis, surface and interface chemistry characterization is expected
- Previous experience with electrochemical setup and electrochemical characterization is a plus
- Ability for both independent and team work
- Strong motivation, scientific curiosity, and interest in interdisciplinary research
- Excellent organizational, written, and oral communication skills in English. Written and oral communication skills in German is a plus.
What we offer
- a stimulating, interdisciplinary environment within the vibrant scientific community of the Max Planck Institute
- access to cutting-edge infrastructure, including advanced electrochemical and structural characterization tools
- remuneration according to the European Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions standards
- conditions and social benefits of the public sector
- compatibility of family and career (e.g. company Kindergarten)
- subsidy for the job ticket
- canteen, with an offer of meat, vegetarian and vegan dishes
- outdoor sports facilities on campus