Overview
PhD researcher position in Chemistry – 1 FTE
We offer an exciting PhD position within a Junior Star project funded by the Czech Science Foundation (GA ČR), hosted by the Department of Inorganic Chemistry at the University of Chemistry and Technology (UCT) in Prague. This PhD project focuses on the controlled synthesis and optimisation of MAX phases and their transformation into MXenes, with an emphasis on tailoring morphology using different carbon sources. The research will investigate how different carbon allotropes influence MAX phase formation, structural evolution, and the resulting MXene architecture. By systematically tuning the carbon environment during synthesis, the project aims to synthesise MXenes with engineered morphologies and to understand how these structural variations affect surface chemistry, defect distribution, and overall functional properties. This project offers an exciting opportunity to expand both the structural and functional diversity of the MXene family through carbon-guided design.
Key benefits:
– Hands-on training in material synthesis (solid-state reactions, molten salts, etching).
– Experience in structural, morphological, and surface characterisation (SEM, TEM, EDS, XRD, Raman spectroscopy, AFM, XPS).
– Understanding of structure–property–performance relationships in MXenes and their impact on functional performance in energy applications
– Work within an international and interdisciplinary environment.
– Participation in international conferences, workshops, and training schools.
– Potential collaboration with research partners from abroad.
Desired skills and qualifications:
– Master’s degree in chemistry, materials science, or related fields;
– Responsible graduate student with enthusiasm to be in the lab and organisational skills;
– Ability to work independently and collaboratively within an international research environment;
– Motivation for contributing to the development of high-performance materials for energy technologies.
– Excellent command of English as a working language.
What we offer:
– Enrolment in the PhD doctoral program starting in September 2026, but a contract job can be signed before that.
– Full-time employment (40 hours/week) for up to 4 years, 6 weeks of paid vacation.
– Meal allowance, access to in-house language courses, and childcare options.
– Research work in one of the largest Central European educational and research centres performing cutting-edge research focused on chemistry, chemical and biochemical technologies, material and chemical engineering, food science, environmental studies and related disciplines.
– Access to state-of-the-art equipment.
– Opportunity to work in Prague, a vibrant city at the heart of Europe with excellent global transport connections.
– Relocation assistance to the Czech Republic through the Welcome Office.
– Convenient access to UCT Prague by public transport, located just three metro stations from the Old Town and near the airport.
– Affordable accommodation options at UCT residence halls (Sázava and Volha), which have all amenities nearby.
– Employee rates for recreational facilities of the UCT Prague, including in Pec pod Sněžkou, an active alpine resort in the Krkonoše National Park.
How to apply
Please submit:
– Cover letter describing your motivation and relevant experience
– Curriculum vitae and contact details of two references
Send your application to filipa.oliveira@vscht.cz with the subject line « PhD – TUBESTOR ».
Short-listed candidates will be invited for an online interview. Please note that only selected candidates will be contacted.
Closing date for applications: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is full.
About UCT Prague:
UCT Prague conducts highest-quality basic and applied research in chemistry, biochemistry, technical chemistry, chemical and biochemical technologies, chemical engineering, food science, and environment science, with active publication activities focused on professional, impact factor-ranked journals, books and book chapters, patents, utility models, implemented technological components, and other outputs of applied research. UCT Prague fosters active, close cooperation with industrial partners, translating and applying scientific knowledge to practice, and developing innovations and applying R&D in real-world industrial settings. More information: UCT Prague | Living in Czechia guide
By providing your personal data in your CV, you give consent to the University of Chemistry and Technology Prague to process and file your CV for the purposes of this selection procedure. At the same time you confirm that your personal data in the submitted CV is true and accurate.
Published on 22.01.2026
