PhD student for Applied Electrochemistry

DTU Energy is seeking a qualified and motivated PhD student to work on the improvement of SOFCs (or SOECs). National and international energy strategies rely more and more on energy/electricity production from renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. As the production and need, i.e. customer demand, are not always corresponding, technologies have to be developed that:  

• Produce electricity efficiently in times of deficit from renewables
• Store electricity in periods of excess supply from renewables.

The Department of Energy Conversion and Storage is dedicated to develop such technologies, for example fuel cells, electrolysis, and batteries. One of the largest activity areas at DTU Energy are solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) and solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs). Research spans over a large range from fundamental understanding, materials development, characterisation to cell and stack manufacturing and testing under realistic operating conditions. Collaboration across scientific disciplines is one of our key strengths. We have comprehensive experimental facilities that include for example an electrochemical testing lab with 20 single cell test rigs, 3 stack test rigs and 3 rigs for high pressure testing (in the range of 30 bars and higher), all highly automatized and equipped with advanced technical and electrochemical methodology such as impedance spectrometers. One of the biggest challenges for SOFC and SOEC technologies are the expected life times of several years on the system level, and here specifically, how to proof those on cell and stack level for supporting the development of better generations. Compressed or accelerated testing are key words in this respect and are highly desired. To develop successful strategies, evaluation and understanding of key, life time limiting factors on the component level is required for relevant operating parameters. The project will include advanced testing of SOFCs (SOECs) on component, cell and stack level, including impedance spectroscopy, design and application of life time testing strategies, and modelling. The preferred candidate 

• has an education as an engineer, materials scientist, physicist, chemist, or similar
• has practical experiences in one or more of the following areas: fuel cells, electrolysis, and high temperature electro chemistry
• is highly motivated to work both independently and as part of a large, dynamic team
• is able to plan and carry out complicated tasks
• has good communication skills in English, both written and spoken

We offer We offer an exciting job in an exciting and international working environment. DTU Energy is dedicated to high level education, academic excellence, public-sector consultancy and innovation, which contribute to improving the future society. The Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is a leading technical university in northern Europe and benchmarks with the best universities in the world. Salary and employment conditions The salary and appointment terms are consistent with the current rules for PhD degree students. The period of employment is 3 years. The scholarships for the PhD degree are subject to academic approval, and the candidates will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes of DTU. For information about the general requirements for enrolment and the general planning of the scholarship studies, please see the DTU PhD Guide. The place of work is DTU Risø Campus near Roskilde. Application Deadline for the application is 27 February 2015. Applications must be submitted as one pdf file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply online," fill in the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one pdf file. The file must include: •A letter motivating the application (cover letter) •Curriculum vitae •Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (an official translation into English) •Excel sheet with translation of grades to the Danish grading system (see guidelines and excel spreadsheet here) Candidates may apply prior to obtaining their master's degree, but cannot begin before having received it. All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. More information For more information you are welcome to contact Head of Section Anke Hagen anke@dtu.dk or to visit our homepage: www.ecs.dtu.dk/english.  

Please write in your application that you've seen the job at Jobfinder