Research Assistant in Sorbent Characterization (100%)

• Support sorbent characterization: You assist in analyzing sorbents and their structures for Direct Air Capture (DAC).

• Conduct stability testing: You perform material stability tests under accelerated aging conditions, including sample preparation, systematic sampling, and CO₂ capacity measurements.

• Analyze porosity: You measure N₂ adsorption/desorption isotherms and carry out mercury porosimetry to characterize sorbent porosity.

• Perform adsorption and titration experiments: You execute water adsorption isotherm experiments and conduct acid/base titrations.

• Collaborate on development projects: You work closely with development specialists on targeted projects and work packages.

• Improve experimental methods: You contribute to the development, refinement, and validation of testing methods to ensure reliable and reproducible results.

• Validate and document results: You troubleshoot issues, confirm data accuracy, and clearly document your work for effective communication across interdisciplinary teams.

• Educational background: You have completed an apprenticeship as a laboratory technician or hold a higher degree (BSc, MSc) in chemistry, material sciences, or a related field.

• Hands-on lab experience: You enjoy practical lab work and have experience with techniques such as porous material characterization (N₂ adsorption, Hg porosimetry, DVS) or adsorption testing (breakthrough experiments).

• Knowledge of CO₂ capture: You are familiar with CO₂ capture processes, or you are eager to learn (prior experience is beneficial but not required).

• Safety mindset: You prioritize safe operation and comply with all safety standards.

• Learning attitude: You are motivated to acquire new concepts, skills, and tools to succeed in your role.

• Personal qualities: You are reliable, solution-oriented, structured, and communicate concisely.

• Language skills: You are fluent in English; knowledge of German or other languages is a plus.

Our promise: At Climeworks, you are accepted for who you are, and we are committed to building an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply – regardless of background, identity, or experience. Studies show that women and individuals from minority backgrounds often only apply for jobs when they meet 100% of the listed criteria. If this sounds like you, don’t hold back. If you think you’d make a great fit for this role, we’d love to hear from you, even if you don’t check every single box. Let’s tackle one of humankind’s greatest challenges together.

What we offer:

• Time Off: Enjoy 25 paid vacation days every year, plus public holidays.

• Flexibility: Work how it suits you best. We offer a hybrid work setup and up to 4 weeks of remote work annually within any EU country.

• Ownership: Fair base pay paired with an equity package – because your contributions matter.

• Family Support: Inclusive parental leave.

• Continuous Learning: Dedicated budget to invest in your professional growth.

• Referral Rewards: Help us grow our team and earn bonuses for your successful referrals.

Salary: At Climeworks, salary ranges are assigned to a job based on the level of seniority and the location specific market median of similar jobs according to external benchmark surveys. Individual compensation depends on your skills, experience, and the value you bring to the team.

Formalities: 

• This position is based in Opfikon, Zurich.

• We do not accept candidate profiles through recruitment agencies.