PhD scholarship in Computational Electrocatalysis - DTU Physics

I’m seeking an outstanding PhD candidate in the field of computational electrocatalysis. The PhD project aims to use state-of-the-art quantum simulation techniques, Density-Functional-Theory (DFT), Ab Initio Molecular Dynamics (AIMD), and Machine Learning (ML) tools to develop theoretical electrocatalytic frameworks. Hereby, the project will challenge existing research on catalysis, move the boundary of fundamental catalysis, and approach the next generation of selective renewable reactions.

The PhD student will join the newly established Computational Catalysis group  led by Associate Professor Alexander Bagger at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) located at the outskirts of Copenhagen. The Computational Catalysis group has a long-term goal to develop predictive models and schemes of new reactions and materials in close connection with experiments. Typical work is highly collaborative, internally within experimental groups at DTU and externally with other leading universities. The group is part of the Catalysis Theory Center (CatTheory) which spans two departments at DTU, the Department of Physics, and the Department of Energy Conversion and Storage. CatTheory provides a strong infrastructure and computational facility

Responsibilities and qualifications
The successful candidate must have a two-year master’s degree (120 ECTS point) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master’s degree in physics, chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science or related areas as well as experience in the general area of catalysis for sustainable energy solutions. The candidate must display good communication skills in English, both written and spoken, be innovative and able to work both independently and in cross-disciplinary teams, as well as with international academic collaborators and industrial partners.

Approval and Enrolment  
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education . 

Assessment
Successful candidates must document:

• A background and interest in catalysis for fundamental understanding
• A background and interest in electrocatalysis and applications in sustainable energy conversion
• Python programming skills and knowledge of density functional theory codes 
• Preferably a track record of academic cross-disciplinary collaboration
• Preferable knowledge of statistical and machine learning methods 

You will be assessed against the responsibilities and qualifications stated above and the following general criteria:

• Catalysis experience
• Python programming experience.
• Communication skills

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and appointment terms
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. 

The period of employment is 3 years. The employment is expected to start 1 September 2025.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here http://www.dtu.dk/english/about/job-and-career/working-at-dtu/career-paths.

Further information
Further information may be obtained from Associate Professor Alexander Bagger ([email protected]).

You can read more about DTU Physics at www.fysik.dtu.dk. 

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark . Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar ” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU. 

Application procedure 
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 7 April 2025 (23.59 Danish time) . Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file . The file must include:

• A letter motivating the application (cover letter, 1 page max)
• Curriculum vitae (2 pages max)
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale

You may apply prior to ob­tai­ning your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it.

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.