Postdoc in “live” Visualization of Nanoparticle Catalysts at the Atomic-Scale - DTU Physics

Are you passionate about pushing the frontier of catalysis science? 

The Center for Visualizing Catalytic Processes (VISION) at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is offering mutiple Postdoc positions in 2026 focussing on nanoparticle catalysis using advanced operando electron microscopy. If you thrive in a collaborative, cutting-edge setting and want to make a global impact, we want to hear from you!

Responsibilities and qualifications
The Postdoc positions address four exciting topics. For all positions, you will collaborate closely with a group of PhD students, postdocs and international leading scientists, all working at the technological edge of modern electron microscopy for advancing catalysis science. The four topics are:

(1) Designing Superior Catalytic Sites
You will explore nanoparticle surfaces and electrocatalysis using cutting-edge experimental tools to create catalysts for sustainable chemical reactions. The tasks can include: 

• Preparation of well-defined nanoparticles using e.g. size-selected cluster sources.
• Catalytic testing using ultra-sensitive chip-interfaced electrochemistry–mass spectrometry (EC–MS) and ultra-high-vacuum-compatible thermal catalytic setups.
• 3D atomic-resolution imaging and spectroscopy of nanoparticles using advanced broad- and focused-beam transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques.

(2) Structure–Catalysis Relationships at the Atomic Scale
You will use custom-fabricated nanoreactors and operando electron microscopy to reveal how single nanoparticles drive catalytic processes. The tasks can include:

• Preparation of nanoreactors with single and few nanoparticles for gas-phase catalysis.
• Development and application of ultrasensitive methods to probe gas–surface interactions by means of electron spectroscopy in the electron microscope.
• Operando studies of catalysts using low dose-rate and dose atomic-resolution TEM.
• Linking 3D atomic structure, dynamics, and catalytic function of individual nanoparticles.
• Identifying and stabilizing uniquely active nanoparticles to uncover atomistic mechanisms for sustainable catalysis.

(3) Visualizing Chemical Dynamics in Real Time
You will apply advanced atomic-resolution imaging and image analysis to uncover surface dynamics, reactivity and molecular interactions. The tasks can include:

• Visualization of single nanoparticles during thermal catalysis using time-resolved, atomic-resolution transmission electron microscopy. 
• Development of quantitative image analysis to extract information on atomic  vibrations and displacements from image series.
• Investigate molecular adsorption, surface reconstruction and site-dependent reactivity at the single-atom level
• Understanding of atomic mechanisms and kinetics to stabilize highly active but metastable surface motifs sustainable catalytic processes.

(4) Modeling Atomic Processes on Nanoparticles
You will develop atomistic models and machine-learning potentials to interpret experimental data and predict catalytic performance. The tasks can include:

• Advancing equivariant neural network potentials (ENNPs) to model nanoparticle energy surfaces.
• Building atom-explicit ground-state models of supported and unsupported nanoparticles.
• Modeling catalytic reaction kinetics to identify active sites and reaction barriers, integrating experimental TEM data.
• Comparing adsorbate-induced nanoparticle morphologies with ENNP-based simulated TEM data for coherent interpretation.

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent). 

Your application must specify which research topic appeals most to your ambitions and include a concise description of your research skills and experience.

We favor candidates with a degree in physics, chemistry or materials science. For Topic 1-3, candidates must have documented skills in atomic-resolution electron microscopy, microfabricated devices, 2D materials, catalysis and/or surface science. For Topic 4, candidates must have documented skills within computational modelling of atomistic processes. Experience in scientific programming, e.g. using Python, is expected for all topics. 

The candidate has obtained excellent grades in his/her Bachelor and Master educations, demonstrated outstanding problem-solving skills, and good communication skills in both spoken and written English, and experience in working independently and in a team. 

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 terms of employment 
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 two years. The starting date is 1 September 2026 or as can be agreed upon.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information 
Further information may be obtained from Associate Professor Christian D. Damsgaard (e-mail: ccda@dtu.dk), Professor Jakob Kibsgaard (email: jkib@fysik.dtu.dk), Professor Peter Vesborg (email: vesborg@fysik.dtu.dk), Professor Joerg Jinschek (email: jojin@dtu.dk), Professor Thomas Bligaard (email: tbli@dtu.dk) and Professor Stig Helveg (email: stihe@dtu.dk).

You can read more about VISION at www.vision.dtu.dk and DTU Physics at www.fysik.dtu.dk/english. 

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure 
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 31 May 2026 (23:59 Danish time).  We are reviewing applications and interviewing candidates continuously. 

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:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications 

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 Center for Visualizing Catalytic Processes (VISION) is funded by the Danish National Research Foundation and located at DTU Physics. VISION is developing and applying a new unique platform for visualizing catalytic nanoparticles and reactions at the atomic-level by integrating cutting-edge electron microscopy, microfabricated nanoreactors, nanoparticle synthesis and computational modelling. This approach enables new, direct operando observations that are urgently needed to advance mechanistic insight into catalytic processes at the atomic-scale. 

VISION’s activities are centered around a new one-of-a-kind electron microscope, housed in DTU’s new "Climate Challenge Laboratory" building. The new laboratory hosts the VISION center, the Surface Physics and Catalysis section, the CatTheory section and the newly established Pioneer Center, CAPeX, as a vibrant collaborative research environment with internationally leading scientists in the fields of catalysis and power-to-X.

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities of the world.