MatSEC Research School

Materials for Sustainable Energy Conversion (MatSEC)

Overview

MatSEC, or Materials for Sustainable Energy Conversion, is a pioneering research school (graduate school) funded by the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin for Materials and Energy (HZB). It aims to establish an innovative and interdisciplinary network of young researchers dedicated to advancing the development of materials essential for sustainable energy technologies. Doctoral candidates benefit from a course program in which transferable skills can be acquired. MatSEC is a member of the Dahlem Research School (DRS), the strategic center for junior researchers at the Freie Universität Berlin.

Research Focus

The core mission of MatSEC is to develop and understand materials that are critical for efficient sunlight-based energy conversion and storage. This involves an integrated approach combining experimental and theoretical methods to explore the structure-property relationships of various advanced materials. By leveraging extensive analytical capabilities and state-of-the-art instruments at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin, MatSEC researchers aim to design custom-made materials optimized for renewable energy applications.

Key Research Areas

The research at MatSEC covers a broad spectrum of topics, including the development of new materials for the production of solar fuels, the characterization of nanoscale solid-liquid interfaces, and the design of interfaces in thin-film photovoltaics. The efforts also extend to bridging the gap between fundamental science and industry by developing photovoltaic or electrolyser technologies and optimizing processes for higher efficiency and cost reduction.

A significant portion of MatSEC's work focuses on the electrocatalytic conversion of CO₂ and water into valuable products using renewable energy. This involves studying multi-metal catalysts, advanced cell designs, and understanding the dynamic transformations of catalytic surfaces under reaction conditions. Additionally, the research includes the synthesis and optimization of novel electrocatalysts for hydrogen production, targeting next-generation electrolyser materials.

The interdisciplinary approach at MatSEC encompasses various fields such as material science, crystallography, solid-state physics, solid-state chemistry, and scientific computing. Researchers utilize advanced techniques like in situ optical and synchrotron-based X-ray spectroscopies, time-resolved pump-probe techniques, and high-spatiotemporal resolution microscopy to investigate the fundamental processes at play in energy conversion materials.

Training and Development 

MatSEC offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary course program for doctoral candidates, emphasizing both technical expertise and transferable skills. The program's international research environment fosters continuous motivation and lifelong learning, preparing researchers for successful careers in academia and industry, while expanding the professional network.

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