100%, Zurich, fixed-term

Prof. Dr. Kent Warren , head of the Solar Energy Engineering Laboratory in the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering at ETH Zürich, invites applications for a fully funded, full-time PhD position focused on the development of novel thermochemical approaches for the production of green hydrogen. The position is expected to start on 1 August 2025, or at the earliest convenience of the successful candidate.

Job description

At the Solar Energy Engineering Laboratory, our mission is to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy by developing cost-effective technologies that convert sunlight into a storable and more usable form.

The successful candidate will contribute to this mission by applying fundamentals in thermodynamics, chemistry, and material science to design new methods for producing hydrogen from water that are not only compatible with sustainable heat sources (e.g., concentrated solar radiation) but also scalable by volume. The performance of the conceived methods will be experimentally evaluated using both custom-built equipment and advanced thermophysical characterization techniques, such as thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry. In addition to conducting original research, the successful candidate will be responsible for writing and publishing research findings in leading scientific journals, presenting at international conferences, supporting team members in various scholarly activities, and mentoring Master’s and Bachelor’s students.

Profile

We are seeking a highly motivated, well-rounded, and intellectually curious early-career researcher who meets the following criteria:

• A Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, process engineering, chemical engineering, chemistry, materials science, or a closely related discipline.
• Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research environment.
• A supportive mindset with the capacity to thrive in diverse, inclusive, and multidisciplinary settings.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and oral.
• Experience with computational tools commonly used in scientific research (e.g., MATLAB, Python, or similar).
• Above all, a genuine enthusiasm for science and discovery, particularly in the field of sustainable energy conversion and storage.

Workplace

We offer

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity, and attractive offers and benefits.

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity

In line with our values , ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• A cover letter describing your scientific interests and how your background aligns with the profile (max. 1 page).
• A detailed curriculum vitae.
• A digital copy of your Master’s thesis.
• A digital copy of all official academic transcripts.
• The names and contact details of three academic references.

Application deadline: 2 June 2025

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Questions regarding the position should be directed to Mrs. Annica Mandola at E-Mail schreiben .

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

Apply online now

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.