Assistant Professor - Plasma-surface interaction for application in catalysis

Functieomschrijving

Are you intrigued by the present research efforts in the field of plasma catalysis? Would you find exciting to answer the question: ‘Plasma and catalysis: is it a matter of synergy, symbiosis or rather, antagonism?’. If so, we invite you to be part of this exciting journey and generate breakthroughs to place (renewable sources-generated) plasma science and technology in a prominent and essential role in greening the chemical industry. 

We are looking for an experimentalist with a strong knowledge in plasma physics and chemistry and motivation to contribute to the challenge of energy transition. We have particular interest in someone who is motivated to unravel the mechanisms of plasma-activated catalysis by in situ and operando diagnostics in the plasma phase as well as at the (sub-)surface of the catalyst. The following research topics are highly appealing (but not exhaustive): low-temperature plasma physics and chemistry, plasma and surface diagnostics, (electro-)catalysis, rational design of plasma-activated catalytic systems.  

You will join the Plasma & Materials Processing (PMP) research group at the Department of Applied Physics of the TU/e. The present research in the PMP group embraces several research lines such as the experimental investigation of the plasma medium, in situ and operando studies of interaction of reactive species with surfaces, and (plasma-based) synthesis at the atomic scale of materials of interest in many fields in science and technology. You will also be embedded in the Eindhoven Institute of Renewable Energy Systems (EIRES).

The research group and institute comprises an enthusiastic, and diverse group of researchers who share a passion for collaborative efforts and working with students. They are strongly embedded in (inter)national academic and industrial research networks. You will have access to state-of-the-art lab and clean room facilities in aforementioned areas. These include many experimental systems for (plasma-based) atomic-scale processing such as atomic layer deposition and etching reactors, advanced in situ optical and laser spectroscopy, extensive material analysis equipment, etc. Moreover, the described research profile matches perfectly with the focus of the Applied Physics department on the strategic area “Energy & sustainability” and aligns with the present collaborations with the DIFFER institute and the department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry.  

The vacancy is open for an assistant professor, either tenure track or tenured, depending on the experience of the candidate. 

• You will be responsible for setting up and driving your own independent research program, by generating funding, and supervising/coaching students at the bachelor/master/
  PhD level 
• You will be teaching at the Applied Physics bachelor and master level 
• You will contribute to the success of the research group, department, and associated institutes by initiating new internal and external collaborations and proactive participation 

Functie-eisen

• Motivated researcher, with a PhD in (applied) physics, chemistry, material science, chemical or electrical engineering, or similar and preferably at least 2 years of experience as researcher 
• Background in low-temperature plasma physics and chemistry, experience with in situ plasma and surface diagnostics and (electro-)catalysis is a plus 
• Ability to conduct high quality academic research, demonstrated by a relevant PhD thesis and publications in high impact journals 
• Motivated to teach, contribute to teaching processes, and to develop excellent teaching skills 
• Excellent communication, organization and leadership skills 
• Strong cooperation skills and ability to work in an interdisciplinary team 
• Experience in acquiring external research funding from (inter)national funding bodies, or industry is an asset 
• Excellent proficiency (written and verbal) in English 

Arbeidsvoorwaarden

• A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. 
• Free access to high-quality training programs for academic leadership, the university teaching qualification program, research and valorization competences, and a dedicated mentoring program to help you get to know the university and the Dutch (research) environment. 
• For women candidates, we include the possibility to become an Irène Curie Fellow. This entitles you to a substantial start-up package to kick-off your career.    
• Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labor Agreement for Dutch Universities. 
• Additionally, an annual holiday allowance of 8% of the yearly salary, plus a year-end allowance of 8.3% of the annual salary. 
• A broad package of fringe benefits, including an excellent technical infrastructure, moving expenses, and savings schemes. 
• Family-friendly initiatives are in place, such as the Dual Career Opportunity program to support accompanying partners, an international spouse program, and excellent on-campus children day care and sports facilities. 

Informatie en sollicitatie

About us 
Eindhoven University of Technology  is a top-ranking Dutch university that combines scientific curiosity with a hands-on attitude. Our spirit of collaboration translates into an open culture and a number 1 position in collaborating with advanced industries. Fundamental knowledge enables us to design solutions for the highly complex problems of today and tomorrow.  

Curious to hear more about what it is like as a professor at TU/e? Please view the video. 

More information
Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact 
Cyndi Geurts, Recruiter (c.g.geurts[at]tue.nl). 

Are you inspired to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit www.tue.nl/jobs. 

Application
We invite you to submit a complete application. The application should include a: 

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position. 
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references. 
• List of five self-selected ‘best publications’ with a short description for each why you selected them. 
• Description of your scientific interests and plans (1-2 pages). 
• Statement of your teaching goals and experience (1-2 pages). 

We look forward to your application and will screen it as soon as we have received it. Screening will continue until the position has been filled.