in Scanning Tunneling Microscopy


Are you passionate about exploring electrocatalytic reactions for clean and sustainable energy
production? Do you want to contribute to the development of advanced techniques to understand
the atomic-scale properties of catalytic surfaces? If so, join the team for unveiling the fundamental
chemical and physical characteristics of catalysts’ surfaces that determine their macroscopic
catalytic performance.

The PECAS Lab, located within the Faculty of Chemistry at the UPV/EHU campus in San Sebastián,
Basque Country, Spain, is looking to appoint a motivated and talented postdoctoral researcher. This
position will focus on conducting experimental research in surface electrochemistry, specifically
within the framework of the ERC Starting Grant project "Controlling Oxygen Selectivity at the
Atomic Scale" (ERC-2021-St G, COSAS, 101040193). The project aims to establish a direct correlation
between quasi-in situ surface characterization and the atomic-scale structural and electronic
properties of catalysts, with a particular emphasis on improving reaction selectivity in water
electrolysis.
Position Details:

• Duration: 1+1 years (initial 1-year contract, renewable for an additional year upon mutual

agreement)

• Start Date: October-November 2024
• Location: Faculty of Chemistry, UPV/EHU, San Sebastián, Basque Country, Spain

Research Focus:
The postdoctoral researcher will develop a novel experimental methodology that integrates
complementary surface-sensitive analytical techniques, such as Scanning Probe Microscopy (SPM)
and Near-Ambient Pressure X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (NAP-XPS), to investigate catalytic
surfaces under various controllable atmospheric conditions, ranging from single-molecule
interactions to electrolyte environments.
The core of the project involves studying layered materials (e.g., graphene, Mo Se2) under ultra-high
vacuum (UHV) conditions using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and spectroscopy (STS)
at low temperatures (4K). These experiments will reveal the electronic and structural properties of
catalyst surfaces with atomic resolution, uncovering the fundamental features of individual active
sites. The insights gained will be correlated with quasi-in situ NAP-XPS experiments to develop a
comprehensive understanding of the electrode-electrolyte interface under realistic electrochemical
conditions.

The position is in the Faculty of Chemistry of the University of the Basque
Country, in San Sebastián, Spain, where the candidate will be spending
his/her time during the project. This position is funded by the European
Union within the program “Horizon Europe” under grant ERC-2021-St G,
COSAS, 101040193.

Qualifications:
We seek a highly motivated candidate with the following qualifications:

• Required:

o Ph D in Physics, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field
o Extensive experience with ultra-high vacuum (UHV) techniques and low- temperature scanning probe microscopy (STM/nc-AFM)
o A strong interest in expanding expertise to electrocatalysis and surface
electrochemistry
o Ability to work independently and within a collaborative, interdisciplinary team
environment
o Excellent problem-solving skills, creativity, and initiative

• Preferred:

o Experience with electrochemical methods
o Familiarity with X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), particularly NAP-XPS Benefits:

• Opportunity to work in a state-of-the-art laboratory with access to advanced research

facilities and international collaborations

• Collaboration with a dynamic and multidisciplinary research team
• The chance to contribute to a pioneering project in the field of electrocatalysis for

opportunities
How to Apply:
Applications should be addressed to Dr. Sara Barja and sent via email in one single PDF, with the
subject “COSAS-Postdoc application”, to sara.barja@ehu.eus before the 1st of October 2024
(applications will be considered upon arrival) including:
1. A cover letter outlining your interest in the position
2. Curriculum vitae (CV)
3. A short description of previous research (1-2 Pages)
4. Contact information for at least two academic references

The position is in the Faculty of Chemistry of the University of the Basque
Country, in San Sebastián, Spain, where the candidate will be spending
his/her time during the project. This position is funded by the European
Union within the program “Horizon Europe” under grant ERC-2021-St G,
COSAS, 101040193.