PhD Student Position (f/m/d)

Continuous hydrothermal synthesis in near- or supercritical water (scH2O 374°C, 22.1MPa) enables the production of highly crystalline particles in a sustainable and environmentally friendly reaction medium. Nanoparticles made of magnetic materials exhibit interesting magnetic properties that depend on their size, shape, and structure. These particles have great potential for various applications in the biomedical and technical fields. As part of the project, you will develop processes for continuously synthesizing highly crystalline, tailored magnetic ferrite nanoparticles with special magnetic properties in supercritical water (scH₂O). Particle formation under scH2O conditions is still poorly understood. Therefore, in cooperation with our project partner, you will monitor the synthesis process in-situ by implementing sensors for electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The magnetic nanoparticles will be implemented in 3D-printed functional materials (polymer composites). 

Your tasks will include:

• Adapting an existing continuous hydrothermal synthesis plant.
• Developing processes for continuously synthesizing magnetic ferrite nanoparticles under near-critical and supercritical conditions.
• Optimizing the process parameters.
• Carrying out kinetic investigations.
• Characterizing the properties and structure of the magnetic nanoparticles.
• Functionalizing the surface of the nanoparticles for integration into 3D-printed, functional polymer composites.
• You will work in a team with our project partner.
• You will present your results at national and international conferences and contribute to publishing the research results.

Persönliche Qualifikation

• You have a university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in (technical) chemistry, chemical engineering or related disciplines with excellent grades.
• You show a strong interest in scientific work and you want to pursue a doctorate.
• You have a strong background in technical chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and chemical synthesis.
• Expertise in chemical analysis techniques (e.g., powder diffraction, electron microscopy, IR and Raman spectroscopy) is desirable.
• Experience with high-pressure technology and electronic components, as well as programming skills, is beneficial.
• Fluent English skills (written and spoken) are required, and knowledge of the German language is highly desirable.
• You have a collaborative mindset to work in a team and with interdisciplinary and international partners.

Organisationseinheit

Salary

Salary category 13 TV-L, depending on the fulfillment of professional and personal requirements.

Contract duration

3 years.

Application up to

September 9th, 2025

Contact person in line-management

For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Silke Behrens, silke.behrens@kit.edu.