Master Thesis – Investigation of the ionic and electronic conductivity of solid oxide ceramics

Your Job:

As an electrode for solid oxide cells, materials are needed that simultaneously exhibit high electronic and ionic conductivity. In recent years, lanthanum strontium cobalt ferrite (LSCF) has been identified as a promising representative of these mixed ionic-electronic conducting solid oxides. To further improve the properties of these materials, it is necessary to understand the fundamental processes of the conductivity mechanism. Therefore, in the project, high quality ceramics will be prepared as a model system and their electrochemical properties will be analyzed. In detail, your tasks include:

• Synthesis of ceramics by sintering method.
• Analysis of structure and composition by dilatometry, diffractometry and electron microscopy
• Optimization of process parameters
• Temperature dependent analysis of electrochemical properties by impedance spectroscopy and Hebb-Wagner polarization
• Close collaboration with internal cooperation partners
• Detailed evaluation and processing of the measurement data

Your Profile:

• Ongoing Master studies in physics, chemistry, material science or similiar
• Fundamental knowledge of solid state physics is a plus
• Practical skills and interest in laboratory work
• High degree of independence, motivation and reliability
• Fluent knowledge of written and spoken English

Our Offer:

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We support you in your work with:

• A master project executed in an interdisciplinary and international research environment
• An interesting and socially relevant topic for your thesis with future-oriented themes
• A large research campus with green spaces, offering the best possible means for networking with colleagues and pursuing sports alongside work
• Ideal conditions for gaining practical experience alongside your studies
• A versatile, highly motivated working group within one of the largest research centers in Europe
• An excellent scientific and technical infrastructure including state-of-the-art electrochemical methods
• Qualified support through your scientific colleagues
• Flexible working hours as well as a reasonable remuneration
• The opportunity for a PhD position at the IEK-14 might be offered to you following your Master`s thesis with sufficient skills and available job funding provided

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.