Germany - PhD in Advanced Fuel Cell Membrane Characterization at University of Freiburg
University: University of Freiburg
Country: Germany
Deadline: 2026-02-22
Fields: Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science
Are you passionate about advancing clean energy technologies and eager to contribute to the next generation of fuel cell research? If you are looking to build your expertise at the intersection of experimental physics, engineering, and innovative measurement techniques, this PhD opportunity at the University of Freiburg could be the ideal next step in your academic journey.
About The University Or Research Institute
The University of Freiburg, officially known as Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, is one of Germany’s oldest and most prestigious research universities. Located in the vibrant city of Freiburg im Breisgau in southwestern Germany, the university is renowned for its strong emphasis on research-driven education and international collaboration. The institution consistently ranks among the top universities in Europe, particularly in natural sciences and engineering disciplines. The city of Freiburg itself is recognized as a hub for sustainability and innovation, offering a high quality of life, a rich cultural scene, and proximity to the Black Forest and other European research centers. The university’s collaborative environment, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong ties with leading research institutes such as Fraunhofer ISE make it an exceptional place for doctoral studies.
Research Topic and Significance
The advertised PhD position focuses on the development and application of advanced characterization methods for fuel cell membranes, with a particular emphasis on catalyst coated membranes (CCM). Fuel cells are at the forefront of clean energy technologies, playing a crucial role in the global transition toward sustainable energy systems. However, the performance and durability of fuel cells depend heavily on the properties and behavior of their membranes, especially those coated with catalysts.
Innovative analysis and measurement techniques are essential for understanding, optimizing, and scaling up these membranes for industrial applications. The research aims to bridge the gap between fundamental science and practical implementation, supporting the advancement of efficient, durable, and cost-effective fuel cell technologies. This work is highly relevant in today’s context of climate change mitigation, energy security, and the growing demand for renewable energy solutions.
Also See
The Successful Candidate Will Join The Chair For Photovoltaic Energy Conversion At INATECH, Working Closely With The Research Production Line For CCMs And Metrology Experts At Fraunhofer ISE, One Of Europe’s Leading Applied Research Organizations. The Project Will Involve
– Developing innovative impulse thermography methods for in situ and ex situ characterization of fuel cell membranes.
– Selecting, developing, and optimizing optical measurement techniques, such as laser scatterometry, hyperspectral imaging, ellipsometry, and polarimetry.
– Advancing additional optical methods, including spectroscopy and imaging techniques, for comprehensive membrane analysis.
– Implementing reference methods to validate and benchmark new approaches.
– Evaluating and processing measurement data, with the use of image analysis, point spread function analysis, and AI-based tools.
– Engaging in programming and scientific computing for data evaluation and method development.
– Collaborating closely with Fraunhofer ISE and strong European partners from academia and industry within collaborative projects.
This position offers the unique opportunity to work at the interface of fundamental research and industrial application, with access to advanced research infrastructure and an international network of experts.
Candidate Profile
Applicants Should Have a University Degree (Master’s Or Equivalent) In Physics Or Engineering, Such As Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical, Materials, Or a Related Field. The Ideal Candidate Will Possess
– A strong interest in experimental work and the development of measurement techniques and analysis methods for energy and fuel cell technologies.
– Experience in at least one of the following areas is advantageous:
– Optical measurement techniques (e.g., spectroscopy, imaging methods)
– Membrane or CCM manufacturing
– Evaluation and processing of measurement data (e.g., image analysis, AI-based tools, point spread function)
– Scientific computing, programming experience, or data analysis/processing
– Analysis and characterization of functional materials or membranes
– A team-oriented working style and strong communication skills in an international research environment.
– Good command of English, both written and spoken.
The university especially encourages applications from women for this position.
Application Process
Application deadline: 22 February 2026.
To apply, candidates should submit their application in English, including all supporting documents and citing the reference number 00004836, by the deadline. Applications can be sent in written or electronic form to the address provided in the official advertisement.
More information and the official job posting can be found at:
https://uni-freiburg.de/stellenangebot/00004836/
Conclusion
If you are ready to advance your career in a dynamic, international research environment and make a meaningful impact on the future of clean energy technologies, do not miss this opportunity to join the University of Freiburg’s world-class team. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply and to explore similar positions for further opportunities in the field.
Want to calculate your PhD admission chances? Try it here:
https://phdfinder.com/phd_admission_chance_calculator/
We’re an independent team helping students find opportunities.
Found this opportunity helpful? Support us with a coffee!
Country: Germany
Deadline: 2026-02-22
Fields: Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science
Are you passionate about advancing clean energy technologies and eager to contribute to the next generation of fuel cell research? If you are looking to build your expertise at the intersection of experimental physics, engineering, and innovative measurement techniques, this PhD opportunity at the University of Freiburg could be the ideal next step in your academic journey.
About The University Or Research Institute
The University of Freiburg, officially known as Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, is one of Germany’s oldest and most prestigious research universities. Located in the vibrant city of Freiburg im Breisgau in southwestern Germany, the university is renowned for its strong emphasis on research-driven education and international collaboration. The institution consistently ranks among the top universities in Europe, particularly in natural sciences and engineering disciplines. The city of Freiburg itself is recognized as a hub for sustainability and innovation, offering a high quality of life, a rich cultural scene, and proximity to the Black Forest and other European research centers. The university’s collaborative environment, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong ties with leading research institutes such as Fraunhofer ISE make it an exceptional place for doctoral studies.
Research Topic and Significance
The advertised PhD position focuses on the development and application of advanced characterization methods for fuel cell membranes, with a particular emphasis on catalyst coated membranes (CCM). Fuel cells are at the forefront of clean energy technologies, playing a crucial role in the global transition toward sustainable energy systems. However, the performance and durability of fuel cells depend heavily on the properties and behavior of their membranes, especially those coated with catalysts.
Innovative analysis and measurement techniques are essential for understanding, optimizing, and scaling up these membranes for industrial applications. The research aims to bridge the gap between fundamental science and practical implementation, supporting the advancement of efficient, durable, and cost-effective fuel cell technologies. This work is highly relevant in today’s context of climate change mitigation, energy security, and the growing demand for renewable energy solutions.
Also See
- Switzerland – PhD in Membrane Separations at ETH Zurich
- Europe – PhD in Computational Biophysics at Saarland University
- United Kingdom – PhD in Brain-Machine Interfaces at University of Southampton
- Portugal – PhD in Environmental Engineering at University of Porto
- Canada – Fully Funded PhD & Postdoc in Digital Technologies at University of Windsor
The Successful Candidate Will Join The Chair For Photovoltaic Energy Conversion At INATECH, Working Closely With The Research Production Line For CCMs And Metrology Experts At Fraunhofer ISE, One Of Europe’s Leading Applied Research Organizations. The Project Will Involve
– Developing innovative impulse thermography methods for in situ and ex situ characterization of fuel cell membranes.
– Selecting, developing, and optimizing optical measurement techniques, such as laser scatterometry, hyperspectral imaging, ellipsometry, and polarimetry.
– Advancing additional optical methods, including spectroscopy and imaging techniques, for comprehensive membrane analysis.
– Implementing reference methods to validate and benchmark new approaches.
– Evaluating and processing measurement data, with the use of image analysis, point spread function analysis, and AI-based tools.
– Engaging in programming and scientific computing for data evaluation and method development.
– Collaborating closely with Fraunhofer ISE and strong European partners from academia and industry within collaborative projects.
This position offers the unique opportunity to work at the interface of fundamental research and industrial application, with access to advanced research infrastructure and an international network of experts.
Candidate Profile
Applicants Should Have a University Degree (Master’s Or Equivalent) In Physics Or Engineering, Such As Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical, Materials, Or a Related Field. The Ideal Candidate Will Possess
– A strong interest in experimental work and the development of measurement techniques and analysis methods for energy and fuel cell technologies.
– Experience in at least one of the following areas is advantageous:
– Optical measurement techniques (e.g., spectroscopy, imaging methods)
– Membrane or CCM manufacturing
– Evaluation and processing of measurement data (e.g., image analysis, AI-based tools, point spread function)
– Scientific computing, programming experience, or data analysis/processing
– Analysis and characterization of functional materials or membranes
– A team-oriented working style and strong communication skills in an international research environment.
– Good command of English, both written and spoken.
The university especially encourages applications from women for this position.
Application Process
Application deadline: 22 February 2026.
To apply, candidates should submit their application in English, including all supporting documents and citing the reference number 00004836, by the deadline. Applications can be sent in written or electronic form to the address provided in the official advertisement.
More information and the official job posting can be found at:
https://uni-freiburg.de/stellenangebot/00004836/
Conclusion
If you are ready to advance your career in a dynamic, international research environment and make a meaningful impact on the future of clean energy technologies, do not miss this opportunity to join the University of Freiburg’s world-class team. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply and to explore similar positions for further opportunities in the field.
Want to calculate your PhD admission chances? Try it here:
https://phdfinder.com/phd_admission_chance_calculator/
We’re an independent team helping students find opportunities.
Found this opportunity helpful? Support us with a coffee!