For our research group Membrane Materials and Processes, we have one PhD vacancy

'Synthesis and characterization of novel electrocatalysts for redox flow batteries'

The chair Membrane Materials and Processes (www.tue.nl/mmp) at the department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry at Eindhoven University of Technology (www.tue.nl) focuses on the design and development of polymer membranes and porous electrodes to control mass transport in sustainable processes. The chair combines and integrates materials chemistry, electrochemical engineering, and process technology. Application areas are water and energy, with a strong focus on the recovery and reuse of resources, the valorization of waste streams and energy efficiency. 'Closing cycles' and 'value from waste' are leading themes in the research program. Next to fundamental academic research, application-oriented research in close collaboration with the industry is stimulated.

Electrochemical porous materials and interfaces

The research on electrochemical porous materials and interfaces is led by dr. Forner-Cuenca. We aspire to facilitate the deployment of transformative energy technologies in the real world. To do so, we employ fundamental principles a the convergence of materials science, electrochemical engineering, and surface science to synthesize, characterize, simulate, and implement novel materials into next-generation electrochemical devices (e.g. redox flow batteries, fuel cells, electrolyzers). We are especially interested in understanding complex transport through porous media, synthesizing functional polymer coatings, and developing advances operando techniques.

Details of the PhD project

Transitioning to a renewable energy economy necessitates the development of new, sustainable energy technologies, to which electrochemistry is poised to play a pivotal role. To increase cost competitiveness, a next-generation of porous electrode materials with increased performance must be developed. The chemistry and morphology of the electrode internal interfaces, which is currently poorly controlled, remains a critical issue hindering the performance and durability. In this project, we will develop a novel synthetic methodologies to conformally coat the internal surfaces of three-dimensional porous electrodes typically used in electrochemical technologies (i.e. redox flow batteries). Using the electrografting method, we impart tailored functional properties (e.g. wettability, ion-conductivity, kinetic activity) with high control over the coating morphology (e.g. thickness, conformality, porosity, density) and chemical composition. The ultimate goal of this research is to develop a new class of redox-active molecular electrocatalysts.

The research will be conducted at the Membrane Materials and Processes group, Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry at Eindhoven University of Technology.

We are looking for highly motivated, ambitious and enthusiastic researchers with a M.Sc. degree preferably in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering or a related topic with a strong physical chemistry background and scientific attitude. Experience with synthetic chemistry and electrochemistry are strong assets. Candidates should have excellent experimental and theoretical skills.

We prefer candidates with a good team spirit, who like to work in an internationally oriented, social environment. Fluency in English is a requirement. An interview and a scientific presentation are part of the selection procedure.

We offer a challenging job for four years in a highly motivated team at a dynamic and ambitious university. You will work with innovative equipment and will be part of a highly multidisciplinary collaboration where expertise of a variety of disciplines comes together. The TU/e is located in one of the smartest regions of the world and part of the European technology hotspot 'Brainport Eindhoven'; well-known because of many high-tech industries and start-ups.

The gross monthly salary in accordance with the Collective Labor Agreement of the Dutch Universities (CAO NU), starts with € 2.325,- in the first year to € 2.972,- in the fourth year. Besides this the TU/e has holiday- and end-of the year allowances, an excellent package of attractive benefits for employees and a modern sports complex. Assistance for finding accommodation can be given.