Department of Chemistry
PhD Student Position in Semiconductor Photocatalysis 80 %
Start of employment September 1, 2026, or upon mutual agreementThe group of Prof. David Tilley has an opening for a PhD position at the intersection of materials chemistry, catalysis, and solar energy. We are located at the University of Zurich, Irchel campus, where you would work in one of the newest and most modern chemistry buildings in Europe.
Your responsibilities
As a PhD student in our group, you will work on the synthesis and study of semiconducting inorganic particles for solar-driven catalysis.
Your responsibilities will include:
Your responsibilities will include:
- Synthesis of semiconducting inorganic particles and thin films (e.g., Cu2O, antimony chalcogenides, ...)
- Coating the particles with charge extraction and/or catalytic layers
- Structural and compositional characterization using techniques such as XRD, SEM/TEM, AFM, and XPS, as well as characterization by electrochemical methods
- Investigation of photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical reactions, including value-added reduction and oxidation of organic molecules
- Design, execution, and analysis of experiments with a high level of scientific rigor
- Presentation of results in group meetings, conferences, and peer-reviewed publications
Your profile
We are seeking a highly motivated candidate with a strong interest in materials chemistry and solar-driven catalysis.
Required qualifications:
Desirable:
Required qualifications:
- Master's degree in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, or a related discipline
- Experience in synthetic chemistry, materials chemistry, or nanomaterials synthesis
- Strong interest in photocatalysis, electrochemistry, or renewable energy technologies
- Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative research environment
- Excellent communication skills in English (spoken and written)
Desirable:
- Experience with semiconductor materials or inorganic synthesis
- Experience with photocatalysis or photoelectrochemistry
- Experience with materials characterization techniques (e.g., XRD, electron microscopy, various spectroscopies)
- Experience with electrochemical measurements
Information on your application
Please submit your application as a single PDF file that includes the following: i) a cover letter describing previous research and motivation for applying to this position, ii) a detailed curriculum vitae, and iii) the names of two people who can supply reference letters. Letters of recommendation will only be requested for shortlisted candidates. Applications will be received until May 7th, 2026. Incomplete applications will not be considered.What we offer
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What we offer
Further information
Questions about the job
Prof. Dr. David Tilley Professor
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Working at UZH
The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer!
More → https://www.uzh.ch/en/explore/work.html
Please apply via our job portal www.jobs.uzh.ch.
The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer!
More → https://www.uzh.ch/en/explore/work.html
Please apply via our job portal www.jobs.uzh.ch.
Working at UZH
The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer!
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