PhD position in mechanochemical hydrogen production in natural silica-rich rocks

PhD position in mechanochemical hydrogen production in natural silica-rich rocks
100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The ETH Zurich Geothermal Energy & Geofluids ) Group in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences investigates subsurface reactive fluid and geothermal energy transfer, developing and employing computer simulations, laboratory experiments, and field analyses. Our aim is to gain fundamental insights and develop sustainable technologies to address societal needs.

Project background

We are excited to announce an interdisciplinary PhD opportunity focused on mechanochemical processes driving radical formation and redox cycling in the deep subsurface, with implications for geochemistry, geophysics, biogeochemistry, planetary habitability, and sustainable energy resources. The successful candidate will join a dynamic research team investigating how crustal faulting, tectonics, and mineral fracturing generate reactive unpaired electron radical centers in silica-rich rocks. These silica radicals may react with water to form natural hydrogen, reactive oxygen species, unique silica surface moieties, and other products. These processes may fuel microbial metabolisms and shape subsurface ecosystems. The project may explore the formation, accumulation, migration, and potential exploitation of natural hydrogen as a clean energy source. This research addresses fundamental questions about mechanochemical reactions in natural materials and energy flow in Earth's deep environments and its relevance to extraterrestrial environments and future energy strategies.

Job description

The PhD project will explore:

• Mechanochemical radical generation during rock fracturing and its role in water splitting to form hydrogen and reactive oxygen species
• Characterization of radical centers in natural rock samples with electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy and imaging.
• Characterization of silica, water, hydrogen-based, and oxygen-based reaction products with multinuclear Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) both in solution and solid state.
• Abiotic redox processes involving iron and other transition metals in fractured rock systems.
• Coupling among geomechanical stress, geochemical gradients, and microbial activity in deep subsurface environments.
• Formation, accumulation, and migration of natural hydrogen in geological reservoirs and its potential for human energy use.
• Implications for early life and habitability on Earth and other planetary bodies.

The work will combine experimental stimulations (e.g., ball milling, high-pressure fracture experiments), magnetic-resonance-based characterization, geochemical analysis, microbial ecology approaches, alongside modeling hydrogen migration and storage potential.

Profile

We seek a highly motivated and self-organized individual with:

• Strong interest in interdisciplinary research bridging chemistry, physics, geochemistry, geomechanics, microbiology, and energy science.
• Background in chemistry, physics, geochemistry, mineral physics, biogeochemistry, or planetary science.

• Experience with experimental techniques, such as:

• High-energy milling or fracture stimulation.

• Geochemical assays for H₂, H₂O₂ and redox states (e.g., X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, zeta potential).
• Familiarity with liquid- or solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), or electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Familiarity with analytical tools: X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray computed tomography (XRCT)
• Expertise in designing and performing high-temperature and high-pressure in-situ experiments is advantageous.
• Fluency in English (both written and spoken).

Workplace
Workplace
We offer

We provide a dynamic and exciting work environment with cutting-edge computational and laboratory infrastructure at ETH Zurich in general and in the GEG group in particular. The GEG Group's reactive transport laboratory includes an XRCT system to run reactive transport experiments inside as well as a laser laboratory with Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) and Laser-Induced Fluorescence (LIF) experiment capabilities. We are also in the process of expanding the laboratory to soon include both low- and high-field multinuclear Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Imaging (NMR/MRI), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), and dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) instruments to conduct reactive experiments inside and quantify and visualize a wide range of components as well as temperature and pressure in up to three spatial dimensions. The GEG Group values an open and inclusive group culture.

The position is 100% with a competitive salary according to ETH Zurich standards. The position is for one year with the potential for annual extensions based on project needs and employee performance. The position start date is 1st of March 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application, including:

• a cover letter, describing your motivation, experience and qualification for the position
• your CV
• if readily available, up to three professional reference letters, otherwise, please provide the contact information of up to three references

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. We will start reviewing applications in early February, 2026.

For questions, please reach out to Dr. Adam Altenhof at and/or Dr. Xiang-Zhao Kong

---