• Develop and optimize mechanochemical routes for the synthesis and regeneration of NaBH4 using ball milling under H₂ pressure;
• Investigate solid-state reaction mechanisms and parameter dependencies (e.g. milling conditions, hydride sources, pressure, temperature);
• Design and perform experiments on borohydride formation from borates and related precursors;
• Characterize materials using spectroscopic and analytical techniques (e.g. NMR, IR, XRD);
• Contribute to scaling strategies and integration into circular hydrogen storage cycles, in collaboration with project partners.

• When working on complex experimental systems, you structure your work and connect mechanistic insight to process-level performance;
• You collaborate effectively and communicate clearly with researchers across chemistry, engineering, and application domains;
• You take initiative in developing and troubleshooting experimental setups, including high-pressure and solid-state systems;
• A PhD (working and thinking level) in inorganic chemistry or a closely related field;
• Strong experience in inorganic or main-group chemistry, including air-sensitive techniques; 
• Hands-on experience with solid-state synthesis, mechanochemistry, or hydrogen-related materials is highly valued;
• Experience with spectroscopic or structural characterization techniques (e.g. NMR, XRD);
• Familiarity with high-pressure systems, metal hydrides, or energy materials is beneficial.

You will work in a highly innovative and rapidly developing field at the interface of inorganic chemistry, mechanochemistry, and sustainable energy systems. This project is positioned at the forefront of enabling practical and circular hydrogen storage technologies, with strong scientific and societal relevance.

You will gain:

• Expertise in mechanochemical synthesis and solid-state reactivity;
• Experience with hydrogen storage materials and circular energy systems;
• Opportunities to contribute to high-impact publications and potential patentable innovations.

We offer a temporary employment contract for 38 hours per week for a period of 12 months. An extension maybe possible based on available funding combined with adequate performance. The preferred starting date is ultimately 1st of August 2026. 

The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between € 3,546 - € 5,538 (scale 10). This does not include 8% holiday allowance and 8,3% year-end allowance. The UFO profile Researcher 4 is applicable. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities is applicable.

Besides the salary and a vibrant and challenging environment at Science Park we offer you multiple fringe benefits:

• 232 holiday hours per year (based on fulltime) and extra holidays between Christmas and 1 January;
• multiple courses to follow from our Teaching and Learning Centre;
• multiple courses on topics such as leadership for academic staff;
• multiple courses on topics such as time management, handling stress and an online learning platform with 100+ different courses;
• 7 weeks birth leave (partner leave) with 100% salary;
• partly paid parental leave;
• the possibility to set up a workplace at home;
• a pension at ABP for which UvA pays two third part of the contribution.

Are you curious to read more about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits, take a look here.