PhD in Electrocatalyst Development for Electrolyzers

About the FSTM

The University of Luxembourg is an international research university with a distinctly multilingual and interdisciplinary character.

The Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine (FSTM) at the University of Luxembourg contributes multidisciplinary expertise in the fields of Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science, Life Sciences and Medicine.
Through its dual mission of teaching and research, the FSTM seeks to generate and disseminate knowledge and train new generations of responsible citizens in order to better understand, explain and advance society and environment we live in.

Your role

Electrical energy storage in the form of hydrogen is gaining momentum with the increasing penetration of renewable energy across the globe. One of the many possible ways of generating hydrogen from renewable is by the electrolysis. The research and development of both acidic and alkaline electrolyzers is one of the frontier areas of research today and the performance improvement (reduction in overpotentials at both the electrodes), durability, and reliability of the system is therefore very important. Paul Wurth Chair at the university of Luxembourg is actively engaged in green hydrogen and is immensely interested in the the development of electrolyzers to produce hydrogen for a variety of applications including fuel cells and various chemical and steel industries. The group has also a strong background in membranes science and technology. Currently, the Chair has a PhD position available for highly motivated, self-driven, and interested candidates in the area of electrolysers.

Your role as a PhD researcher includes the following:

• Setting up a state-of-the-art laboratory for the development of electrolyzers
• Development of components of the electrolyzers including catalysts for both anode and the cathode (both the electrodes)
• Conducting electrochemical and physical characterization of the device and its components towards performance improvement and stability
• Development and demonstration of a laboratory-scale electrolyzer
• Conducting performance improvement and durability tests of the electrolyzers etc.
• In addition to publishing papers and filing patents, the candidate is also expected to train Masters' and undergraduate students

Your profile

• A Master's in Chemical Engineering or an allied discipline; prior experience or familiarity with electrochemical devices will be an added advantage
• A strong desire, motivation and inclination towards developing practical devices
• Excellent written and oral communications skills in English (skills with French, German, and Luxembourgish will be an added advantage)
• Willingness to work in a diverse and multi-cultural environment
• Ability to think and work independently on scientific and technological problems

We offer

• Multilingual and international character. Modern institution with a personal atmosphere. Staff coming from 90 countries. Member of the "University of the Greater Region" (UniGR)
• A modern and dynamic university. High-quality equipment. Close ties to the business world and to the Luxembourg labour market. A unique urban site with excellent infrastructure
• A partner for society and industry. Cooperation with European institutions, innovative companies, the Financial Centre and with numerous non-academic partners such as ministries, local governments, associations, NGOs …

How to apply

Applications should include:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover letter

Early application is highly encouraged, as the applications will be processed upon reception. Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by Email will not be considered.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. In line with our values, the University of Luxembourg promotes an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are dedicated to upholding equality and respect for our employees and students.

General information:

• Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract 36 Month (extendable up to 48 months if required)
• Work Hours: Full Time 40.0 Hours per Week
• Location: Kirchberg Campus
• Employee and student status
• Job Reference: UOL06736

The yearly gross salary for every PhD at the UL is EUR 40952 (full time).