Open PhD Positions

AI-assisted Production of PGM-free electrodes for Anion Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis

This doctoral thesis uses artificial intelligence to develop high-performance, low-cost electrodes for anion exchange membrane water electrolysis, supporting the large scale production of green hydrogen. By creating AI-optimised, PGM-free catalyst-coated membrane electrodes, the project enables rapid screening and improvement of catalysts, ionomers, and their combinations.

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Hyrometallurgical recycling of lithium-ion batteries

Within the Institute of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, the Working Group Chemical Reaction Engineering explores key concepts underlying reactive sustainable processes. To expand our scientific team in the research field of hydrometallurgical recycling of lithium-ion batteries, we are searching for a University project assistant (opt. PhD position) for 40 hours per week starting in March 2026. The work focuses on the development of an energy-efficient, continuous recycling process for the selective recovery of lithium from thermally untreated black mass from lithium-ion batteries. Based on decentralized pre-treatment, a continuous water-CO₂-based leaching process is being researched that does not require strong acids and is designed according to the principles of green chemistry. Lithium recovery from the aqueous leaching solution is achieved by implementing a continuous precipitation step in a Taylor-Couette Disc Contactor, a column-type stirred apparatus that was developed at the institute. The overall goal is to develop a sustainable, scalable recycling technology for lithium with high efficiency and selectivity as a contribution to the goals of the circular economy and to strengthen regional value creation.

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