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Chemical Engineering and Catalysis● OpenPostdocPreview

Research Scientist in Biofunctional Catalyst Development

Join RIKEN’s Biofunctional Catalyst Research Team to develop innovative catalysts for green hydrogen production and energy conversion systems.

Best for:Best for postdoctoral researchers with expertise in electrochemistry, catalysis, spectroscopy, or computational science, seeking to contribute to sustainable energy innovation.

RIKEN · Saitama, Japan · R2 · Recognised researcher
More professors at RIKEN
Bioinspired catalysisGreen hydrogen productionElectrochemical water splittingNon-noble metal catalystsIn-situ spectroscopyComputational catalysis
This is a postdoc position — not a PhD studentship.
Deadline
Aug 25, 2027
314 days
Funding
Salaried
JPY 5000k/yr
Start date
2027-04-01 or as negotiated
Full-time
Location
Saitama
Japan

Overview

This position at RIKEN’s Biofunctional Catalyst Research Team focuses on advancing bioinspired catalysts for sustainable energy solutions. The successful candidate will contribute to the JST GteX project, aiming to develop revolutionary water electrolysis systems for green hydrogen production. The role involves developing non-noble metal oxygen-evolution catalysts, analyzing reaction mechanisms using in-situ spectroscopy, and employing computational science to understand degradation processes. The team targets breakthroughs in energy conversion and resource creation while addressing environmental challenges. Applicants should demonstrate expertise in electrochemistry, catalysis, spectroscopy, or computational science and a track record of independent research.

Biofunctional CatalystGreen HydrogenElectrochemistryCatalysisWater ElectrolysisNon-Noble Metal CatalystsIn-Situ SpectroscopyComputational Science

What you'll do

  • Develop non-noble metal catalysts for oxygen evolution in water electrolysis systems.
  • Conduct in-situ spectroscopic analysis to study reaction mechanisms and degradation processes.
  • Apply computational science to model and analyze catalytic reactions and degradation pathways.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to advance green hydrogen production technologies.
  • Autonomously conduct research and contribute to team activation and innovation.
  • Implement and evaluate new catalytic materials and systems for energy conversion applications.

Requirements

Degree required: PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field, with at least 5 years of post-PhD experience or equivalent expertise.

Language: English; proficiency required for communication and collaboration.

Instruction: Japanese (primary), English (for international collaboration)

Required skills
  • Proven expertise in electrochemistry, catalysis, spectroscopy, or computational science.
  • Experience in developing and characterizing catalytic materials.
  • Ability to conduct independent research and publish findings.
  • Strong communication skills in English for collaboration and reporting.
  • Experience with in-situ spectroscopic techniques or computational modeling tools.
Nice to have
Experience with water electrolysis systems or green hydrogen technologies.Familiarity with non-noble metal catalysts or bioinspired materials.Publication record in top-tier journals related to catalysis or energy conversion.
Eligibility
  • PhD degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field.
  • At least 5 years of post-PhD experience or equivalent expertise.
  • Ability to work autonomously and collaboratively in a research team.

Funding & terms

Type
Salaried
Amount
JPY 5000k/yr
Duration
2027-04-01 to 2028-03-31 (fixed-term contract, non-renewable)
Programme
JST Innovative GX Technology Creation Program (GteX)
RIKEN, JST (Japan Science and Technology Agency)

How to apply

Deadline: 2027-08-25

Applicants must submit their application through the official recruitment portal. Required documents include a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, and any additional materials specified in the application guidelines. Applications are reviewed in two stages: initial document screening followed by an interview (either remote or in-person).

Documents required
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • List of publications and research achievements
  • Additional application materials as specified in the recruitment guidelines
↗Apply via form

Contact

RIKEN Recruitment Team· Recruitment Contact

nakamuralab-recruit@ml.riken.jp

https://www.riken.jp/

RN
Prof.
Ryota Nakamura
Environmental Resource Science Center
Lab
Biofunctional Catalyst Research Team
RIKEN
JST Innovative GX Technology Creation Program (GteX)Japan
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