We are one of the largest and oldest universities in Europe and one of the most important employers in our region.
Our broad range of subjects, the dynamic development of our main research areas and our central location in Cologne
make us attractive for students and researchers from around the world. We offer a wide range of career opportunities in
science, technology, and administration.
Doctoral Position (f/m/x) Chemistry -
N2 Reduction through TiO2 Aerogels
Professor Dr Milow’s Nanostructured Cellular Materials group
focuses on the synthesis of highly porous, open-pored, and
nanostructured materials known as aerogels. These materials
possess many advantageous properties, such as high sound
absorption and extremely low thermal conductivity, making
them highly attractive materials with applications in many
different fields, such as super-insulation materials in the
aerospace, automotive, and building services industries.
YOUR TASKS
» Research as part of the DFG project “Ammonia on Site”
and collaboration with UBT, the University of Ulm, and
our team at DLR
» Research work at both the University of Cologne
and the DLR
» Development of manufacturing processes for photo-
chargeable TiO2 aerogels for ammonia synthesis from
N2 following time-delayed irradiation
» Physicochemical characterization
» Optimization of synthesis parameters for tunable
properties such as porosity or doping, also with
a view to scaling
» Comparison of TiO2 aerogels based on molecular
precursors with TiO2 fibers and particles, as well as
hybrid forms
» Investigation of the influence of reaction conditions on
photocatalytic efficiency and activity
» Adaptation of the material for liquid- and gas-phase
reactors
» Demonstration of the simultaneous conversion of N2
and CO2 to urea
YOUR PROFILE
» Master’s degree in chemistry, materials chemistry,
or a comparable degree
» Practical knowledge of the production and optimization
of materials; experience with aerogels or highly porous
materials
» Experience operating measuring instruments and the
ability to use them independently
» Knowledge of relevant chemical and physical parameters
and the resulting material properties
» Security Vetting for Employment at DLR
WE OFFER
» DFG project in collaboration with the DLR
and other partners
» A diverse working environment with equal opportunities
» Support in balancing work and family life
» Extensive advanced training opportunities
» Occupational health management offers
» Flexible working time models
The University of Cologne promotes equal opportunities and
diversity. Women will be considered preferentially in accord-
ance with the Equal Opportunities Act of North Rhine-West-
phalia (Landesgleichstellungsgesetz – LGG NRW). We also
expressly welcome applications from all suitable candidates
regardless of their gender, nationality, ethnic and social
origin, religion, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity.
The position is available from 1 November 2026 on a part-
time basis (26,69 hours per week). The position is to be
filled for a fixed term of 36 months. If the applicant meets
the relevant wage requirements and personal qualifica-
tions, the salary is based on remuneration group 13 TV-L
of the pay scale for the German public sector.
Please apply online with proof of the required qualifications
without a photo under: https://jobportal.uni-koeln.de.
The reference number is Wiss2608-14. The application
deadline is 15 September 2026.
For further inquiries, please contact Dr Danny Bialuschewski
([email protected]) and take a look at our
FAQs.
Institut of Inorganic and Materials Chemistry
Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences
