Are you interested in developing innovative chemical technology that advance decarbonization, electrification and CO2 utilization as pillars of a green transition? A PhD position focused on combining electrochemical CO2 conversion with homogeneous catalysis by pioneering methods is now offered at DTU Chemistry within the Centre for Catalysis and Sustainable Chemistry. You will join an international environment applying an application-oriented research strategy to develop novel chemistry and processes with the potential to secure the future for the next generations in terms of energy, resources and the environment.
Responsibilities and qualifications
We are seeking a highly motivated candidate with a strong commitment to clean energy and sustainability. The ideal candidate thrives in cross-disciplinary research environments and is passionate about developing innovative methods and processes with the potential to decarbonize chemical manufacturing at industrially relevant production rates utilizing CO2 emissions directly as feedstock.
Applicants must hold a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points), or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree, in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, or a closely related discipline. A master’s degree with a solid foundation in experimental chemistry is preferred.
Prior experience with one or more of the areas of electrochemistry, catalysis, ionic liquids, materials characterization, and instrumental analytical techniques is advantageous but not a requirement. The PhD program is designed to provide comprehensive scientific training, and relevant skills can be developed during the course of the research.
The project is inherently interdisciplinary and will be carried out in collaboration with a group at KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Sweden, offering exposure to an international research environment. Excellent written and oral communication skills in English are essential.
Approval and Enrolment
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education
Assessment
The assessment of the applicants will be made by Professor Anders Riisager, DTU Chemistry.
We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.
Salary and appointment terms
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years.
The starting date is 1 September 2026 or as soon as possible hereafter, according to mutual agreement and the position is full-time.
You can read more about career paths at DTU here
Further information
Further information may be obtained from Professor Anders Riisager (ar@kemi.dtu.dk).
You can read more about DTU Chemistry at www.kemi.dtu.dk and the and the research group at www.kemi.dtu.dk/english/research/inorganic-chemistry/anders-riisager-group
If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “ PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU.
Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than Tuesday 30 June 2026 (23:59 Danish time)
Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file The file must include:
You may apply prior to obtaining your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it.
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.
The Department of Chemistry performs research, educational activities, and innovation at a high international level within e.g. energy, catalysis, and materials. The overall aim is to contribute with new knowledge about basic scientific problems and carry out research with vast application perspectives - to the benefit of both society and companies.
DTU – For the benefit of society since 1829
DTU is one of Europe's leading elite technical universities. Through research and education at an international top level, we create solutions to the major societal challenges of our time and help secure Europe's global leadership in sustainable technological development. Since Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU almost 200 years ago, our mission has remained the same: We develop and create value through the natural and technical sciences for the benefit of society. DTU has 13,800 students, 1,600 PhD students, and 6,500 employees. We work in an international environment and have an inclusive, stimulating, and informal work culture. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland and collaborates with the best universities around the world.
