Postdoc Position: Solid-State NMR for Understanding Metal-Mediated Ammonia Synthesis
Radboud University – Magnetic Resonance Research Center (MRRC)
The MReChem group is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to work on the development and application of solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to unravel the mechanism of lithium-mediated electrochemical ammonia synthesis, a leading candidate for decarbonizing one of the world’s most important chemical processes.
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Project background
Ammonia production via the Haber–Bosch process underpins modern agriculture but accounts for ~3% of global COâ‚‚ emissions. Lithium-mediated electrochemical nitrogen reduction offers a promising low-carbon alternative, yet its energy efficiency remains limited due to an incomplete mechanistic understanding. This postdoc project is part of an NWO Vidi-funded program aiming to close this gap by developing and applying operando and magic angle spinning solid-state NMR methods that can probe lithium metal, the solid–electrolyte interphase (SEI), and reactive intermediates.
Group website: https://www.ewzhaogroup.org/; https://www.mrrc.nl/
Reference:
3. Luo R, Gunnarsdóttir A B, Aspers R L E G, Zhao E W “In situ NMR guided design of alkaline electrochemical ammonia synthesis” Science Advances, in press.
2. Luo R, Janssen H J W G, Kentgens A P M, Zhao E W “A parallel line probe for spatially selective electrochemical NMR spectroscopy” J. Magn. Reson. 2024, 361, 107666 (Front cover; Special Issue: New Voices in Magnetic Resonance; Invited).
1. Zhao E W, Liu T, Jónsson E, Lee J, Temprano I, Jethwa B J, Wang A, Smith H, Carretero-González J, Song Q, Grey C P “In situ NMR metrology reveals reaction mechanisms in redox flow batteries” Nature 2020, 579, 224.
Your role
As a postdoctoral researcher, you will:
•Combine multinuclear in situ NMR, solid-state MAS NMR, electrochemistry, and complementary techniques such as cryo-EM (via international collaborations) to study lithium-mediated ammonia synthesis.
•Interface with NMR probe engineers to develop an advanced in situ NMR probe.
•Contribute to high-impact publications and present your results at international conferences.
•Collaborate with (inter)national research groups in the field of electrochemical ammonia synthesis
•Mentor PhD, Master’s and Bachelor students
What we offer
•A fully funded 2 Year Postdoc position in an internationally leading NMR environment.
•Net monthly salaries depending on years of experience (including 16% holiday allowances): €5400 – €5800.
•Access to the unique infrastructure of the MRRC, including state-of-the-art ultra-high-field solid-state, solution, benchtop, and custom-built NMR instrumentation.
•Close collaboration with experts in NMR methodology, electrochemistry, and energy materials, as well as industrial and international academic partners.
•Support for independent funding applications such as NWO XS, Veni, Marie Curie fellowship.
Candidate profile
We are looking for a candidate with:
•Experience in solid-state NMR spectroscopy and its applications in materials.
•Experience in NMR hardware development is an advantage.
•Experience in electrochemistry or battery research is a plus, but not required.
•Strong track-record of publication in reputable journals.
•Good communication skills, with the ability to clearly present scientific results in writing and in discussions.
•Ability to work effectively in a diverse, international research team, and to collaborate across disciplines.
How to apply
Please email Evan:
•A motivation letter describing your research interests and research plans.
•A CV including education, relevant experience and publication record.
•Contact details of at least two referees.