The Assignment
You will support the development and testing of titanium-mesh electrodes for the electrochemical conversion of CO₂ into formate. In this process, you will investigate how the electrode composition, the properties of the catalyst, and the chosen electrochemical conditions influence performance.
A key part of the assignment involves preparing and modifying titanium-mesh electrodes using bismuth-based catalysts derived from ZIF (zeolitic imidazolate framework) materials. You will characterize these electrodes using techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). SEM will be used to examine the surface structure of the material, while XRD will provide information regarding its crystal structure.
Furthermore, you will conduct electrochemical experiments using an H-cell configuration. This will involve employing various measurement techniques, including cyclic voltammetry (CV), linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), chronoamperometry (CA), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). You will investigate factors such as the applied potential, the composition of the electrolyte, and the properties of the catalyst.
You will evaluate the performance of the electrodes based on metrics including current density, Faradaic efficiency, formate production, and stability. Additionally, you will analyze the experimental results and identify opportunities to enhance the efficiency and durability of the electrodes. You will document your work from a technical perspective and contribute to the reporting of the research findings.
CO₂ electrolysis presents several challenges. The electrode must maintain sufficient catalytic activity while minimizing competing reactions—such as hydrogen evolution—as much as possible. Factors such as mass transport, the infiltration of the electrode by liquid, and long-term stability can also influence performance.
This assignment is a good fit if you have a background in chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field, and an interest in electrochemistry, laboratory work, and CO₂ conversion.
Would you like to apply? Please send your CV and a short cover letter—detailing your educational background, relevant laboratory experience, and your interest in electrochemistry and CO₂ conversion—to Agha Zeeshan Ali at az.ali@avans.nl and Samman Saghir at s.saghir@avans.nl. Please use the subject line: “Application – Internship Project CO₂-to-Formate”.
About MNEXT
MNEXT is the Centre of Expertise for the materials and energy transition. In collaboration with companies, government bodies, researchers, and students, MNEXT bridges the gap between innovation and society. You will work on practice-oriented research for a sustainable future, becoming a fully integrated member of a multidisciplinary research team as an intern or graduation student.
MNEXT’s projects fall under three main themes: transition and value creation, sustainable energy technologies, and biobased and circular materials. Each semester, dozens of students complete internships at MNEXT, providing you with the opportunity to collaborate with many peers, build social connections, and develop an extensive professional network.
As a student, you will automatically participate in an internship program featuring over 10 workshops designed to strengthen both your research skills and career competencies. Topics include the use of AI in desk research, research integrity, the professional use of LinkedIn, and coaching to help advance a start-up idea. You will receive an internship allowance of €350 per month.