PhD scholarship in Understanding Water Transport and Degradation Pathways in Membranes Tailored[...]

2 days ago


Kongens Lyngby, Denmark Danmarks Tekniske Universitet (DTU) Full time

Interested in advancing sustainable electrochemical energy conversion through polymer science and discovering new pathways for characterizing functional membranes? This position offers a chance to advance your scientific career while contributing to green energy research
Are you pursuing your scientific career within the area of material science and electrochemistry with a focus on polymer studies and looking for the best possible foundation to move toward your aspirations and career ambitions? It is right here at DTU Energy.

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a background in polymer science, material science, or electroanalytical chemistry. In this role, you will get an opportunity to work with collaborators across the department and world to tackle challenging aspects of polymer electrolyte-based CO2 reduction.

The research is relevant for sustainable energy technologies involving applications of functional membranes. Examples include fuel cells, electrolysers, flow batteries, and other electrochemical energy conversion devices. This project is dedicated to the exploration of properties and characteristics of novel membranes using new (in-situ and ex-situ) methodologies and techniques to uncover reasons for frequently overlooked issues in CO2 reduction reactors. The methods will be developed using Small Angle X-Ray Scattering (SAXS), as well as Fluorescence Microscopy. The project will be based at DTU Energy, which has a strong R&D program within sustainable energy conversion and storage technologies.

Responsibilities and qualifications
This project is devoted to the exploration of anion-exchange membranes’ morphologies, water transport within the polymer membrane, as well as degradation pathways when used in electrochemical flow reactors for CO2 conversion applications. The objectives include understanding of swelling behavior and the effect it has on the morphology of a membrane, development of a pH-sensing technique using fluorescence microscopy studies, methodology development, and evaluation of the obtained results.

Your primary tasks include:

  • Preparation and basic characterization of ion-exchange membranes
  • In-depth study of swelling behavior in various electrolytes using in-operando SAXS technique and traditional methodologies
  • Selection/preparation/optimization of pH-sensitive fluorescent probes and strategies for further incorporation into the polymer system
  • Development of assessment strategies for local pH changes in CO2 reduction reactors
  • Establishment of lab-scale setups for concept proof and technical evaluation

Qualifications

  • You must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree, preferably in chemistry, polymer chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, or similar fields
  • Innovative skills and ability to work in an international and multi-disciplinary team
  • Knowledge or research experience in material science or electrochemical energy conversion
  • Preferably practical experience with polymer materials or membranes research
  • Basic knowledge of Python is desired

Approval and Enrolment
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education.

Assessment
The assessment of the applicants will be made by Assistant Professor Anastasiia Konovalova ( ) and Head of Section Johan Hjelm ( ).

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and appointment terms
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years.

The preferred starting date is January 1st, 2025, or according to our mutual agreement. The position is full time.

Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 7 October 2024 (23:59 Danish time).
Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out 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 (in English) including official description of grading scale
  • Documents showing relevant competencies and experience in energy storage and conversion related fields if available

You may apply prior to obtaining your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it.

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

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