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Department of Inorganic Chemistry

Designing new MXene architectures: carbon-source engineering for tunable structure and performance

Study place: Department of Inorganic Chemistry, FCT, VŠCHT Praha
Guaranteeing Departments: Department of Inorganic Chemistry
Study Programme/Specialization: ( in English language )
Supervisor: Filipa Manuela Matos Oliveira
Expected Form of Study: Full-time
Expected Method of Funding: Scholarship + salary

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This PhD project, fully funded by the GACR Junior Star grant, focuses on the controlled synthesis and optimisation of MAX phases and their transformation into MXenes, with an emphasis on tailoring morphology using diverse 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, including tubular, porous, and other emerging structures, 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. - Collaboration abroad with research partners.

Development and optimization of properties of REBCO superconductors prepared by the SDMG method

Study place: Department of Inorganic Chemistry, FCT, VŠCHT Praha
Guaranteeing Departments: Department of Inorganic Chemistry
Study Programme/Specialization: ( in Czech language )
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Ondřej Jankovský, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study: Full-time
Expected Method of Funding: Scholarship + salary

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REBCO (Rare Earth Barium Copper Oxide) belongs to a group of high-temperature superconducting materials that are often prepared by melt growth. The new SDMG (Single Direction Melt Growth) melt growth method exhibits higher robustness and better microstructure than the commercially used TSMG (Top Seeded Melt Growth) method. Despite these advantages, this method's limitations are the used seeds, which do not allow the growth of single-domain EuBCO/Ag crystals due to insufficiently high peritectic temperatures. This work will focus on increasing the peritectic temperature of SDMG seeds, optimizing their composition, and their corrosion resistance. The results of this work demonstrate and expand the potential of the SDMG method and its industrial application.

Electro- and Photoelectrocatalytic Water Splitting with MXenes – Development of Active and Stable Catalysts

Study place: Department of Inorganic Chemistry, FCT, VŠCHT Praha
Guaranteeing Departments: Department of Inorganic Chemistry
Study Programme/Specialization: ( in Czech language )
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Zdeněk Sofer, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study: Full-time
Expected Method of Funding: Scholarship + salary

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The PhD project will focus on the development and investigation of MXenes and MXene-based hybrids as advanced electro- and photoelectrocatalysts for water splitting. The work will involve the synthesis of high-quality MXene layers and their functional modification (surface terminations, heteroatom doping, composite formation) to enhance catalytic activity toward the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Additional emphasis will be placed on designing photoactive heterostructures that combine MXenes with semiconducting materials, enabling the study and optimization of photoelectrocatalytic mechanisms under various illumination conditions.

The research will include comprehensive electrochemical characterization (Tafel analysis, EIS, stability studies, Faradaic efficiency), as well as in-situ and operando spectroscopic techniques to monitor surface transformations during catalysis. The project will also explore strategies for improving long-term stability, oxidation resistance, and interfacial charge transfer. The expected outcome is the development of highly active MXene-based catalytic systems with strong potential for hydrogen production and sustainable energy applications.

Electrocatalytic CO₂ Reduction on MXene-Based Catalysts – Synthesis, Functional Engineering, and Mechanistic Studies

Study place: Department of Inorganic Chemistry, FCT, VŠCHT Praha
Guaranteeing Departments: Department of Inorganic Chemistry
Study Programme/Specialization: ( in Czech language )
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Zdeněk Sofer, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study: Full-time
Expected Method of Funding: Scholarship + salary

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This PhD project will focus on developing MXene-based materials as advanced electrocatalysts for the electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide (CO₂RR). The work will involve the synthesis of high-quality MXenes (such as Ti₃C₂Tₓ, Mo₂CTₓ, V₂CTₓ and related systems), followed by surface functional engineering and controlled modification of surface terminations (–O, –OH, –F, –Cl, –S) that critically influence catalytic activity, selectivity, and long-term stability.

The research will investigate fundamental reaction pathways leading to valuable reduction products including CO, formate, methane, and other C1/C2 hydrocarbons. Particular emphasis will be placed on understanding how defects, heteroatom doping (e.g., N, S, Se), MXene–metal hybrids, and MXene–carbon composites modulate CO₂ adsorption, activation, and intermediate binding energetics.

The candidate will perform comprehensive electrochemical characterization (LSV, CV, Tafel analysis, EIS), Faradaic efficiency assessment, and product identification using gas and liquid chromatography. Advanced in-situ and operando spectroscopic techniques (Raman, FTIR, XAS) will be employed to correlate structural evolution and surface chemistry with catalytic performance.

The expected outcome is a detailed understanding of structure–function relationships in MXene-based catalysts and the development of high-performance catalytic systems for sustainable CO₂ electroreduction.

Growth and Investigation of 2D Magnetic Halides – New Materials for Spintronics and Quantum Technologies

Study place: Department of Inorganic Chemistry, FCT, VŠCHT Praha
Guaranteeing Departments: Department of Inorganic Chemistry
Study Programme/Specialization: ( in Czech language )
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Zdeněk Sofer, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study: Full-time
Expected Method of Funding: Scholarship + salary

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The PhD project will focus on the synthesis, growth, and characterization of two-dimensional magnetic halides (e.g., CrI₃, CrCl₃, FeCl₂, NiBr₂ and related layered systems), which provide a unique platform for studying magnetism in the atomically thin limit. The work will involve optimizing growth methods (CVT, PVT, and potentially CVD), producing high-quality bulk crystals, and exfoliating them into monolayers and few-layer flakes with controlled thickness.

The research will include comprehensive characterization of magnetic properties (such as magnetic hysteresis, temperature-dependent magnetism, and magneto-optical effects including MOKE) and their variation with thickness, chemical composition, surface termination, and possible doping. The candidate will also fabricate and study van der Waals heterostructures combining magnetic halides with other 2D materials to investigate spin ordering, magnetic phases, interlayer coupling, and the tunability of magnetism through electric fields, pressure, light, or molecular intercalation.

High-k and Low-k Two-Dimensional Dielectric Materials for Electronic Applications – Synthesis, Characterization, and Integration into Nanoelectronic Devices

Study place: Department of Inorganic Chemistry, FCT, VŠCHT Praha
Guaranteeing Departments: Department of Inorganic Chemistry
Study Programme/Specialization: ( in English language )
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Zdeněk Sofer, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study: Full-time
Expected Method of Funding: Scholarship + salary

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This PhD project will focus on the development, investigation, and device-level implementation of two-dimensional dielectric materials with high (high-k) and low (low-k) permittivity, which are essential components for next-generation nanoelectronics. The work will involve the controlled synthesis and exfoliation of novel 2D dielectric systems—including halides, chalcogenides, layered nitrides, and other wide-bandgap insulators—followed by detailed characterization of their structural, chemical, and electrical properties.

The research will include measurements of dielectric parameters (permittivity, loss tangent, dielectric breakdown strength), charge transport, and interfacial stability with key 2D semiconductors such as TMDs, graphene, and emerging ferroelectric layers. The candidate will investigate the role of defects, surface chemistry, interfacial states, and the potential for tuning dielectric behavior through doping, intercalation, or heterostructure engineering.

An important part of the project will be the integration of high-k and low-k 2D dielectrics into simple electronic test structures, including FET transistors, capacitors, memory elements, and neuromorphic components. This will include the study of leakage currents, hysteresis, reliability, endurance, and overall performance in device-relevant configurations.

The expected outcome is the establishment of new 2D dielectric platforms optimized for ultrathin, flexible, and energy-efficient electronic devices of the future.

Hybrid salts of 3d metals: synthesis, structure, and magnetic studies

Study place: Department of Inorganic Chemistry, FCT, VŠCHT Praha
Guaranteeing Departments: Department of Inorganic Chemistry
Study Programme/Specialization: ( in Czech language )
Supervisor: prof. Dr. Ing. David Sedmidubský
Expected Form of Study: Full-time
Expected Method of Funding: Scholarship + salary

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This PhD project combines the synthesis of new compounds, their fundamental characterizations, and magnetic studies. The target compounds are hybrid organic-inorganic systems composed of an organic cation, a 3d metal cation, and an anion of oxoacid, which will be specifically selected to achieve magnetically interesting scenarios, inspired by purely inorganic systems. This project will be predominantly experimental, and the specific direction will be adjusted according to the candidate's preferences. It will involve, besides the synthesis, structural studies (XRD, potentially 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy), magnetic characterizations (SQUID magnetometry), including high-pressure experiments (up to tens of GPa), and potentially experiments on large infrastructures (neutron diffraction). The candidate may also participate in computational studies to guide the synthesis and analyze the experimental data.

Chemistry of inorganic analogues of graphene - nanostructures based on pnictogens

Study place: Department of Inorganic Chemistry, FCT, VŠCHT Praha
Guaranteeing Departments: Department of Inorganic Chemistry
Study Programme/Specialization: ( in Czech language )
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Zdeněk Sofer, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study: Full-time
Expected Method of Funding: Scholarship + salary

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The dissertation project focuses on investigating covalent and non-covalent interactions in layered pnictogen materials (such as phosphorene, arsenene, and antimonene) and on developing strategies to enhance their long-term chemical and structural stability. Mono- and few-layer 2D pnictogen structures will be obtained through optimized mechanical exfoliation processes and thoroughly characterized using advanced analytical techniques.

The influence of specific non-covalent interactions with substituted, delocalized organic systems will be examined to assess their effect on electronic transport and surface stability. In parallel, radical-based reactions will be employed to explore possibilities for targeted covalent functionalization, aimed at improving chemical robustness, tuning electronic properties, and enhancing compatibility with other 2D materials.

Finally, methods for fabricating functional microelectronic components—such as FET transistors, sensors, and photodetectors—based on functionalized pnictogen nanostructures will be developed and optimized. The overall objective is to evaluate the application potential of chemically modified inorganic graphene analogues and to propose pathways for their integration into next-generation electronic and optoelectronic devices.

Intercalation of 2D Materials – Formation of Novel Functional Hybrid Structures

Study place: Department of Inorganic Chemistry, FCT, VŠCHT Praha
Guaranteeing Departments: Department of Inorganic Chemistry
Study Programme/Specialization: ( in English language )
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Zdeněk Sofer, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study: Full-time
Expected Method of Funding: Scholarship + salary

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The PhD project will focus on studying the intercalation of organic and inorganic molecules into two-dimensional materials, with particular emphasis on semiconducting and magnetic systems. The research aims to understand intercalation mechanisms, the stability of the resulting hybrid structures, and how the inserted species modify the electrical, magnetic, and optical properties of the host materials. The work will include in-situ experiments enabling real-time monitoring of the intercalation process, as well as controlled doping strategies, layer-by-layer property tuning, and targeted modification of functional parameters for applications in electronics, spintronics, and sensing technologies. The expected outcome is the development of new functional 2D hybrid materials with unique properties arising from interactions between the host lattice and the intercalated molecules.

Magneto-electric nanoparticles: from preparation to inkjet printing

Study place: Department of Inorganic Chemistry, FCT, VŠCHT Praha
Guaranteeing Departments: Department of Inorganic Chemistry
Study Programme/Specialization: ( in Czech language )
Supervisor: prof. Dr. Ing. David Sedmidubský
Expected Form of Study: Full-time
Expected Method of Funding: Scholarship + salary

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This PhD project focuses on the development of well-defined magneto-electric nanoparticles (MENPs), with a high magneto-electric coefficient and tunable magnetic behaviour, for inkjet printing of proof-of-concept electronic components. The project primarily targets core-shell heterostructures that combine magnetostrictive ferrite cores and ferroelectric titanate shells. The candidate will aim to develop a novel synthetic route for these specific particles. Experimental work will involve analysis of the magnetic behaviour of the nanoparticle cores (SQUID magnetometry) and the magnetoelectric effect of the complete particles (a custom-built setup for PPMS). The project will involve structural studies (XRD and TEM) and complex physicochemical characterizations of these nanomaterials. Moreover, colloidally stable suspensions MENPs will be prepared, and preliminary studies on the properties and performance of inkjet-printed electronic components will be performed. The candidate may also participate in computational studies to support the analysis of experimental data.

Microscopy of magnetic layered materials

Study place: Department of Inorganic Chemistry, FCT, VŠCHT Praha
Guaranteeing Departments: Department of Inorganic Chemistry
Study Programme/Specialization: ( in English language )
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Zdeněk Sofer, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study: Full-time
Expected Method of Funding: Scholarship + salary

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The dissertation thesis focuses on the synthesis, controlled intercalation, and comprehensive characterization of layered magnetic two-dimensional materials. The aim is to elucidate how intercalated atoms and molecules influence magnetic ordering, interlayer coupling, and the resulting transport properties of these systems. The research will include the growth of high-quality crystals, exfoliation into atomically thin layers, and the investigation of magnetic phases, domain structures, coercive fields, and spin-switching mechanisms.

The project will also address key transport phenomena such as the anomalous Hall effect, magnetoresistance, and spin-dependent transport, with an emphasis on correlating structural modifications induced by intercalation with magnetic and electronic responses.

Magnetic Lorentz TEM microscopy, along with other advanced transmission electron microscopy techniques, will be carried out in collaboration with Forschungszentrum Jülich within the ER-C-1 center for magnetic high-resolution TEM. This combined approach of material synthesis, intercalation engineering, and state-of-the-art characterization will enable a deeper understanding of magnetism in two-dimensional systems and support their potential application in spintronic and quantum technologies.

Microwave plasma chemical conversion of biomethane to hydrogen and carbon nanoparticles

Study place: Department of Inorganic Chemistry, FCT, VŠCHT Praha
Guaranteeing Departments: Department of Inorganic Chemistry
Study Programme/Specialization: ( in Czech language )
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Ondřej Jankovský, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study: Full-time
Expected Method of Funding: Scholarship + salary

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This thesis will investigate the chemical conversion of biomethane into hydrogen and carbon nanoparticles using microwave plasma pyrolysis. Plasma behavior and reaction mechanisms will be examined through diagnostic techniques such as optical emission spectroscopy, while the produced gases will be monitored online using mass spectrometry to evaluate process conditions and identify optimal operating parameters. The resulting carbon nanomaterials will be characterized using advanced analysis techniques (e.g., transmission electron microscopy, particle size analysis, Raman spectroscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopy with elemental mapping, and X-ray diffraction).

Multifunctional Molecular Spin Switches

Study place: Department of Inorganic Chemistry, FCT, VŠCHT Praha
Guaranteeing Departments: Department of Inorganic Chemistry
Study Programme/Specialization: ( in English language )
Supervisor: Ing. Martin Pižl, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study: Full-time
Expected Method of Funding: Scholarship + salary

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Switchable molecular systems are promising candidates for sensors, data storage, and other stimuli-responsive technologies. Among them, a special class of transition-metal complexes with 3d⁴-3d⁷ electronic configurations, known as spin-crossover (SCO) compounds, can reversibly switch between low-spin (LS) and high-spin (HS) states. This project aims to design and synthesise new multifunctional spin-crossover complexes by strategic ligand design to introduce chirality and luminescence properties, enabling the study of synergistic effects between spin-state switching and the development of multifunctional, multi-responsive switchable molecular materials. The ligand design will be tuned with substituents to develop and establish clear structure-function correlations and achieve predictable tuning of spin-state behaviour. The project will involve structural characterization (single-crystal and powder XRD, and Mössbauer spectroscopy), standard spectroscopic techniques (NMR, UV-Vis, vibrational spectroscopy, etc.), magnetic characterization (SQUID magnetometry), and possibly analysis of other physical properties.

MXenes and Their Chemical Modification for High-Performance Supercapacitors – Synthesis, Structural Engineering, and Electrochemical Evaluation

Study place: Department of Inorganic Chemistry, FCT, VŠCHT Praha
Guaranteeing Departments: Department of Inorganic Chemistry
Study Programme/Specialization: ( in English language )
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Zdeněk Sofer, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study: Full-time
Expected Method of Funding: Scholarship + salary

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This PhD project will focus on the synthesis, functional modification, and application of MXene materials as advanced electrode components for high-performance supercapacitors. MXenes (e.g., Ti₃C₂Tₓ, V₂CTₓ, Mo₂CTₓ) represent a unique class of conductive 2D carbides and nitrides with high surface area, excellent electrical conductivity, and tunable surface chemistry, making them highly promising candidates for electrochemical energy storage.

The research will involve the preparation of high-quality MXenes through optimized selective etching and delamination routes, followed by controlled surface engineering—including tuning of termination groups (–O, –OH, –F, –Cl, –S), heteroatom doping, and fabrication of composites with conductive polymers, carbon nanostructures, or other 2D materials. These modifications aim to enhance ion transport, improve pseudocapacitive behavior, increase stability, and boost overall energy density.

Advanced electrochemical characterization (CV, GCD, EIS) will be used to evaluate capacitance, charge–discharge kinetics, energy and power densities, and long-term cycling stability. Special emphasis will be placed on correlating structural features—such as interlayer spacing, ion intercalation behavior, and surface termination chemistry—with electrochemical performance.

The ultimate goal is to develop and optimize MXene-based electrodes and hybrid systems for next-generation supercapacitors with high power output, excellent stability, and extended operational lifetime.

Novel glass materials for fiber lasers

Study place: Department of Inorganic Chemistry, FCT, VŠCHT Praha
Guaranteeing Departments: Institute of Photonics and Electronics of the CAS
Department of Inorganic Chemistry
Study Programme/Specialization: ( in English language )
Supervisor: doc. Ing. Pavla Nekvindová, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study: Combined
Expected Method of Funding: Not funded

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Fiber lasers are in focus of intense research thanks to their high efficiency, beam quality, high average power, compactness and other advantages that are beneficial for increasing scope of applications including space ones. Silica optical fibers doped with rare-earth ions represent hearts of these lasers. Knowledge of stability of their optical properties including their behavior under extreme space conditions is important for wide employment of fiber lasers. Attention will be focused on investigation of glassy materials of various matrices doped with thulium or holmium emitting at 2 um spectral region and co-doped with other elements or oxides aiming at enhancement of radiation resistivity of these materials.Glassforming, refractive index, spectroscopic, mechanical properties and radiation resistivity of the prepared materials will be studied. The achieved results leading to forecast of suitable materials in form of radiation resistive optical fibers together with methods of their preparation will be verified later by testing in fiber lasers.

Novel 2D materials for electronic applications

Study place: Department of Inorganic Chemistry, FCT, VŠCHT Praha
Guaranteeing Departments: Department of Inorganic Chemistry
Study Programme/Specialization: ( in English language )
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Zdeněk Sofer, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study: Full-time
Expected Method of Funding: Scholarship + salary

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The PhD project focuses on an in-depth investigation of doping strategies in 2D transition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) for advanced semiconductor applications, with the aim of achieving materials with well-controlled n-type and p-type conductivity. The research will include optimization of growth conditions and synthesis of high-quality bulk crystals, exfoliation into atomically thin layers, and comprehensive structural, chemical, and electrical characterization of the resulting materials. The work will further involve the fabrication and study of both vertical and planar heterostructures, as well as the development of simple electronic and optoelectronic devices such as photodetectors, sensors, and transistors based on 2D materials. The expected outcome is a fundamental understanding of doping mechanisms in TMDs and their impact on device performance.

Photoelectrochemical conversion using hybrid 2D-based catalysts

Study place: Department of Inorganic Chemistry, FCT, VŠCHT Praha
Guaranteeing Departments: Department of Inorganic Chemistry
Study Programme/Specialization: ( in Czech language )
Supervisor: prof. Dr. Ing. David Sedmidubský
Expected Form of Study: Full-time
Expected Method of Funding: Scholarship + salary

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The dissertation topic combines experimental and theoretical studies of catalytic hybrid nanomaterials for the photoelectrolytic synthesis of energy-rich compounds. Attention will be focused on the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), the synthesis of hydrocarbons from CO2 (CRR) and possibly ammonia from nitrogen (NRR). Nanostructured layered compounds such as MXenes, C3N4 or chalcogenides functionalized with nanoparticles, polyoxometalates and/or transition metal complexes will be used as catalysts. Theoretical modeling of these systems will include DFT calculations of the electronic structure of layered nanomaterials with a focus on the band gap width, the position of the valence and conduction bands, the work function and the surface energy, depending on the number of layers. Furthermore, the binding energies of functional units to 2D surfaces will be calculated and the energetics of the reaction coordinates of the catalyzed reaction itself will be monitored.

Printed Electronics Based on 2D Materials – Development of Inks, Heterostructures, and Flexible Devices

Study place: Department of Inorganic Chemistry, FCT, VŠCHT Praha
Guaranteeing Departments: Department of Inorganic Chemistry
Study Programme/Specialization: ( in English language )
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Zdeněk Sofer, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study: Full-time
Expected Method of Funding: Scholarship + salary

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The PhD project will focus on the development and investigation of printed electronics utilizing two-dimensional materials. The work will involve formulating stable functional inks based on 2D semiconductors, conductors, and dielectrics, optimizing their physicochemical properties, and studying printing processes such as inkjet, aerosol-jet, and screen printing. The research will include the fabrication of multilayer heterostructures, control of the morphology of printed films, and the development of flexible electronic and optoelectronic components, including sensors, photodetectors, transistors, and energy-related devices. Additional emphasis will be placed on the long-term stability of printed structures, interactions between 2D flakes and binders/substrates/dielectrics, and integration into low-cost or wearable platforms. The expected outcome is the creation of high-performance, fully printed 2D-material-based systems with excellent functional properties and mechanical flexibility.

Shaping the morphology of MAX Phases and MXenes: the role of carbon allotropes to tailor their energy storage properties

Study place: Department of Inorganic Chemistry, FCT, VŠCHT Praha
Guaranteeing Departments: Department of Inorganic Chemistry
Study Programme/Specialization: ( in English language )
Supervisor: Filipa Manuela Matos Oliveira
Expected Form of Study: Full-time
Expected Method of Funding: Scholarship + salary

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This PhD project, fully funded by a GACR Junior Star grant, aims to explore the synthesis and optimisation of MAX phases and their transformation into MXenes with a focus on shaping their morphology to enhance their energy storage properties. The research will investigate how different carbon allotropes influence the formation of MAX phases and the structural characteristics of their MXene derivatives. By adjusting the carbon source during synthesis, the project will examine how variations in morphology, including tubular and other previously unexplored structures, affect the physical, chemical, and electrochemical behaviour of MXenes. This work will provide valuable insights into controlling surface chemistry and defects, key parameters governing MXene performance in energy storage systems. The project offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development and expansion of MXenes with improved properties for next-generation energy storage applications. 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 for electrochemical applications. - Work within an international and interdisciplinary environment. - Participation in international conferences, workshops, and training schools. - Collaboration abroad with research partners.

Silicon-Based Battery Materials and Their Composites – Synthesis, Stabilization, and Electrochemical Performance

Study place: Department of Inorganic Chemistry, FCT, VŠCHT Praha
Guaranteeing Departments: Department of Inorganic Chemistry
Study Programme/Specialization: ( in Czech language )
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Zdeněk Sofer, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study: Full-time
Expected Method of Funding: Scholarship + salary

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The PhD project will focus on the development, synthesis, and comprehensive investigation of silicon-based anode materials and their composites for next-generation lithium-ion, sodium-ion, and potentially multivalent batteries. Silicon is one of the most promising anode materials due to its exceptionally high theoretical capacity; however, its practical application is hindered by large volume expansion during cycling and insufficient structural and mechanical stability.

The research will involve the preparation of silicon nanostructures (nanoparticles, nanowires, 2D Si layers) and the design of composite systems incorporating carbon materials, conductive polymers, or inorganic matrices to mitigate electrode degradation, improve electrical conductivity, and enhance cycle life. This includes optimizing surface chemistry, passivation strategies (SEI engineering), thin protective coatings, and the interfacial interactions between Si components and polymer binders.

Electrochemical characterization will include measurements of specific capacity, coulombic efficiency, rate capability, diffusion kinetics, and long-term cycling stability. Special emphasis will be placed on correlating the microstructure and mechanical integrity of the composites with their electrochemical behavior under realistic operating conditions.

The ultimate goal is to design and optimize next-generation silicon-based anodes that combine high capacity, robustness, and long-term stability, enabling their implementation in advanced rechargeable battery technologies.

2D materials for photo-electrochemical decomposition of water

Study place: Department of Inorganic Chemistry, FCT, VŠCHT Praha
Guaranteeing Departments: Department of Inorganic Chemistry
Study Programme/Specialization: ( in English language )
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Zdeněk Sofer, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study: Full-time
Expected Method of Funding: Scholarship + salary

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This thesis is focused on the use of 2D nanomaterials based on layered chalcogenides and their composites for photo-electrochemical water splitting. Student will work on tailoring of their properties by doping, surface functionalization and composition optimization in order to reduce overpotential for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution and optimize the response of materials to different wavelengths of light in the visible and ultraviolet region.
Updated: 17.2.2022 09:45, Author: Jan Kříž

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