Apply for a fully funded PhD position in electrocatalysis for seawater electrolysis at Universidad Industrial de Santander, Colombia. Receive full stipend, tuition waiver, and access to advanced facilities while researching sustainable hydrogen production. Send CV and motivation letter to siblanco@uis.edu.co.
Fully Funded PhD Opportunity in Electrocatalysis for Seawater Electrolysis
Universidad Industrial de Santander (UIS), Colombia, invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in electrocatalysis for seawater electrolysis starting in 2026. This is a prestigious research opportunity designed for highly motivated candidates aiming to make a real-world impact in the field of clean energy, sustainable hydrogen production, and nanomaterials-based catalysis.
Under the mentorship of leading faculty, selected candidates will engage in cutting-edge research to design, synthesize, and optimize advanced electrocatalysts capable of enabling large-scale hydrogen generation from seawater—a critical step toward achieving global decarbonization goals.
Research Focus: Pioneering Hydrogen from Seawater
Hydrogen is widely recognized as a cornerstone of the clean energy transition, but scaling production sustainably remains a major challenge. This PhD project addresses that challenge by focusing on innovative catalytic materials for seawater electrolysis, a process that utilizes abundant seawater instead of scarce freshwater resources.
Key research areas include:
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Nanomaterial synthesis and characterization for enhanced electrochemical performance
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Advanced electrocatalyst design for high-efficiency seawater splitting
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Electrochemical testing and mechanism studies to improve reaction kinetics and stability
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Integration of materials science and renewable energy systems to accelerate industrial deployment
Students will gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art instrumentation, materials analysis techniques, and computational modeling tools, while collaborating with an interdisciplinary team of scientists and engineers.
Full Financial Support and Academic Resources
This PhD position at UIS offers comprehensive financial support, ensuring that admitted students can fully focus on their research without financial constraints. Support includes:
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A monthly stipend to cover living expenses
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Full tuition waiver for the duration of the program
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Access to modern, well-equipped laboratories for catalysis, electrochemistry, and materials science
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Opportunities to publish in high-impact journals and present at international conferences
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Mentorship from experienced faculty and collaboration with global research partners
UIS also provides a vibrant academic environment that encourages innovation, creativity, and professional development through workshops, seminars, and industry interactions.
Candidate Profile and Eligibility
Applicants are expected to have a strong academic background in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, or related disciplines. Ideal candidates will be enthusiastic about experimental research, sustainability, and advancing renewable energy technologies.
Preferred qualifications include:
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Hands-on experience in electrochemistry, catalysis, or nanomaterials
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Knowledge of materials synthesis, electrochemical characterization, and surface analysis techniques
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Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
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Excellent communication and teamwork skills
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Demonstrated motivation through research projects, publications, or conference presentations
Candidates must hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) by the time of enrollment to be eligible for the PhD program.
Application Process
Interested applicants should send the following documents to siblanco@uis.edu.co with the subject line:
“PhD Application – Electrocatalysts for Seawater Electrolysis”
Required documents:
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Detailed curriculum vitae (CV)
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Motivation letter outlining academic background, relevant research experience, and future goals
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Contact information of academic references (optional but recommended)
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Copies of academic transcripts and English proficiency scores (if applicable)
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.
Why Choose Universidad Industrial de Santander?
Universidad Industrial de Santander is one of Colombia’s leading public research universities, known for its strong engineering and science programs, robust research infrastructure, and international collaborations. Located in the vibrant city of Bucaramanga, UIS offers a stimulating academic setting and a supportive environment for innovation.
Key benefits for PhD students:
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Cutting-edge laboratory and analytical facilities
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Collaborative, interdisciplinary research teams
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Access to global networks in hydrogen energy and materials science
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Opportunities to engage with industry and government partners on sustainability projects
Career Prospects After Graduation
Graduates from this PhD program will be well-prepared for high-impact careers in:
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Academic research and teaching at universities and institutes
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Industrial R&D in clean energy, chemical engineering, and materials manufacturing
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Sustainable technology development roles at energy companies and startups
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Policy-making and advisory positions at governmental or non-profit organizations
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Consulting and innovation management in renewable energy sectors
This program equips students with technical expertise, research experience, and professional networks that are in high demand across the global clean energy economy.
Contribute to the Clean Energy Future
This fully funded PhD position in electrocatalysis for seawater electrolysis at Universidad Industrial de Santander offers a rare opportunity to work at the forefront of clean hydrogen technology. By joining this program, students will contribute to solving pressing global energy challenges while launching rewarding research careers.
If you are passionate about green hydrogen, electrocatalysis, and sustainable innovation, submit your application to siblanco@uis.edu.co and take the next step toward becoming a leader in renewable energy research.
