The Tilley Research Group at the University of Zurich (UZH) pioneers the development of advanced materials for solar fuels and organic electrosynthesis. Under the leadership of Prof. David Tilley, the team focuses on innovative electrochemical and photoelectrochemical strategies that convert (solar) energy into chemical fuels and high-value chemical products derived from renewable resources. Bringing expertise in both molecular and materials chemistry, the group contributes to the PeCATHS project by designing and synthesizing cutting-edge photoelectrodes for solar-driven electrochemical transformations.
The Tilley Group plays a key role in Work Packages 1 and 2 of the PeCATHS project for the fabrication, modification, and electrochemical assessment of the (photo)electrodes developed. The focus lies on creating stable, efficient, and scalable semiconductor–catalyst–electrolyte solution interfaces capable of driving reduction and oxidation reactions, including the hydrogenation of liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs) and oxidation of biomass-derived molecules.
The UZH team combines advanced materials synthesis with state-of-the-art (photo)electrochemical characterization. The insights from impedance spectroscopy and other (electro)chemical analysis schemes as well as the exchange of results and knowledge with the project partners (e.g. ICN2 (TEM analysis), UJI (LOHC reduction) or TCD (new LOHCs)) enable rational optimization of catalytic and (photoactive) interfaces to improve overall device performance and conversion efficiencies. The synergy of the partners in the PeCATHS consortium comprising fabrication, experimental testing, in-depth characterization and computational modeling ensures a deep understanding of the structure–function relationships that govern the (photo)catalytic efficiency of the materials under study.
Beyond its research in material based (photo)electrochemistry, the Tilley Group is internationally recognized for pioneering host–guest catalyst architectures that enable precise control over molecular environments at semiconductor or electrode interfaces. By immobilizing molecular catalysts within tailored surface-bound “host” structures, the group achieves enhanced stability, selectivity, and tunability in photo- and electrocatalytic reactions. This strategy allows reactive molecular species to operate efficiently under demanding conditions while maintaining well-defined active sites, bridging the gap between homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis.
The group’s interdisciplinary approach bridges chemistry, materials science, and energy research, aiming to accelerate the transition toward sustainable and carbon-neutral chemical processes. Through its deep understanding in (photo)electrocatalysis and (solar) energy conversion, UZH reinforces the scientific foundation of PeCATHS and contributes to advancing Switzerland’s and Europe’s vision for a clean energy future.
