About this position
Are you interested in developing new materials and technologies to help transform N₂, CO₂ and renewable energy into sustainable fuels and energy carriers?
We are looking for a candidate to apply for an
FPU 2026 predoctoral fellowship
and carry out a PhD thesis at the
Institute of Chemical Technology (ITQ CSIC-UPV),
in an excellent multidisciplinary research environment specialising in catalysis, materials and technologies for the energy transition.
The PhD thesis will be carried out within the framework of the project
CAT3D4FUEL – Advanced Catalytic Materials for Power-to-Liquids Conversion from CO₂ and N₂, Enhanced by 3D Shaping Technologies
.
PhD Programme:
Sustainable Chemistry, Universitat Politècnica de València
Expected starting date:
2027.
The project
The aim of the project is to develop advanced catalytic technologies for processes related to sustainable energy conversion and storage.
The research will combine heterogeneous catalysis, materials science and advanced manufacturing technologies, including 3D printing, to explore new solutions in areas such as N₂ and CO₂ valorisation, synthetic fuels (e-fuels), hydrogen and ammonia.
This PhD project will have a strong experimental and multidisciplinary focus, providing the opportunity to work across different stages of technology development: from the design and preparation of new materials to their advanced characterisation, shaping and evaluation in catalytic processes.
What will you work on?
Development and characterisation of new catalytic materials.
Design of structured catalysts using advanced shaping and 3D-printing techniques.
Evaluation of catalysts in processes involving CO₂, e-fuels, hydrogen and ammonia.
Use of advanced characterisation techniques to understand the relationship between material properties and catalytic performance.
What profile are we looking for?
Bachelor's + Master's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, or a related discipline.
Excellent academic record, which is particularly important for submitting a competitive FPU application (
preferably >8.5/10
).
Strong interest in experimental research and in scientific challenges related to energy, sustainability and decarbonisation.
Good command of English.
We will particularly value
Experience in materials synthesis and/or characterisation.
Knowledge of heterogeneous catalysis or materials science.
Experience or interest in additive manufacturing and 3D printing.
Scientific curiosity, initiative and the ability to work as part of a team.
What do we offer?
The PhD thesis will be carried out at the
Institute of Chemical Technology (ITQ, UPV-CSIC)
within a multidisciplinary scientific environment with expertise in catalysis, materials and sustainable processes.
You will have access to advanced scientific equipment and receive training in materials synthesis, characterisation and catalytic evaluation. This training will be complemented by participation in seminars, courses, and national and international conferences, as well as opportunities to undertake research stays at collaborating international research centres.
Our aim is not only for you to complete a high-quality PhD thesis, but also to acquire broad and competitive scientific training that will prepare you to pursue a subsequent career in either academia or industry.
FPU 2026 conditions
The FPU 2026 fellowship provides funding for a full-time predoctoral contract for up to four years. According to the information included in the call proposal, it provides
€32,500 per year
, as well as funding for PhD enrolment fees and research stays.
It also provides for the possibility of a postdoctoral orientation period within the total duration of the fellowship if the PhD thesis is defended before the end of the funding period.
Interested?
Please send the following documents
as a single PDF
to:
María Balaguer:
mabara@itq.upv.es
Antonio Chica:
achica@itq.upv.es
Updated CV.
Academic transcripts for both Bachelor's and Master's degrees, including individual grades and overall average grade.
A brief letter explaining your motivation and interest in the PhD project.
Contact details for at least one referee.
For degrees obtained outside Spain, candidates are encouraged to provide the
equivalence of their average grade to the Spanish university grading system
.
Application deadline: 20 November 2026
Location:
Institute of Chemical Technology (ITQ CSIC-UPV), Valencia, Spain.
Members only · Free to join
Sign in to see the full opening
Get the entry requirements, funding, the supervisor's contact and a link to the original advert.
- Requirements
- How to apply
- Contact details
Free forever No credit card 30-second sign-up