Postdoc on optimized electrodes for industrial alkaline water electrolysis

Are you a postdoc skilled in reactor design and operation, with a genuine interest in topics such as electrochemical hydrogen production, green energy, energy transition, and carbon-neutral technologies? Consider joining us at the Department of Biological & Chemical Engineering, Aarhus University (Denmark). We are looking for a postdoc with expertise in designing, building, and troubleshooting (electro)chemical reactors and with a solution-oriented, problem-solving mindset. You will be part of a new project focused on optimizing the structures of electrodes for industrial alkaline water electrolysis. The project is in close collaboration with a global leading electrolyze manufacturer and it aims at accelerating the green transition.

Expected start date and duration of employment

This is a 2-year position starting from October 1st 2024 or as soon as possible thereafter.

Tasks

The project you will be a part of has the ambitious objective of developing new materials and solutions for alkaline water electrolysis (AWE) and it is in close collaboration with a global leading electrolyze manufacturer. The overarching goal is to reduce the cost of green hydrogen production. The project aims to: 1) improve the electrode morphology through innovative technology and 2) understand and mitigate material degradation. The screening and selection of materials will be performed under conditions that mimic those used in industrially relevant applications.

The postdoctoral fellowship includes the following tasks:

• Building and continuously developing the pressurized reactors for electrode production.
• Collecting and visualizing real-time data, preferably by using Python, LabVIEW, or Matlab.
• Iteratively developing the 3D structures of electrodes.
• Assessing the performance of novel electrodes.
• Working in a team with external industrial partners who will provide specific components, operational conditions, and constraints.

Additional tasks might include all or some of the following:

• Electrochemical characterization of electro-catalysts using techniques such as EIS, CV, DPV, and CA.
• Coding in Python and/or Matlab.
• Quantifying gas (both hydrogen and oxygen) crossover under working conditions.

Qualifications

The applicant should have demonstrated excellence and hold a relevant PhD degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical or Production Engineering, or a similar field. The candidate should have proven skills in reactor design, construction, and operation, as well as data collection, measurement, and analysis. Preferably, the candidate will also possess knowledge of electrochemistry, electro-catalysis, and electrochemical techniques. The successful candidate should be a team player, independent, and preferably have demonstrated leadership skills (extracurricular activities count). An open discussion approach and strong ethics are required for this position.

Position Requirements

Mandatory:

• Well acquainted with laboratory and safety procedures in a chemical laboratory, including gas handling.
• Experience in developing, constructing, troubleshooting, and operating (electro-) chemical reactors.
• Skilled in devising and performing experiments, reducing data noise, using and maintaining research equipment, compiling, evaluating, and reporting test results.
• Problem-solving and solution-oriented mindset.
• Good communication skills, with experience in technical report writing and publication.
• Ability to work in a team, with collaboration and/or management skills.
• Ability to work independently and deliver agreed-upon results.

Desired but not mandatory:

• Experience in material characterization (structural and electrochemical).
• Experience in coding (preferably Python).
• Experience in electrochemistry or electrochemical engineering, including practical experience with electrochemical techniques (e.g., CV, EIS, CA, and DPV).

What we offer

The department/centre offers:

• a well-developed research infrastructure, laboratories and access to shared equipment
• an exciting interdisciplinary environment with many national, international and industrial collaborators
• a research climate encouraging lively, open and critical discussion within and across different fields of research
• a work environment with close working relationships, networking and social activities
• a workplace characterised by professionalism, equality and a healthy work-life balance.

Place of work and area of employment

The place of work is Aabogade 40, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark, and the area of employment is Aarhus University with related departments.

Contact information

For further information, please contact: Assoc. Prof. Jacopo Catalano, jcatalano@au.dk, +45 23 35 46 93 and Assoc. Prof. Emil Drazevic, edrazevic@bce.au.dk , +45 93 50 83 45