This posting is for a 3-year postdoc position in the field of electrochemical CO2 reduction to ethylene and ethanol. The focus of the research will be developing gas diffusion electrode based electrolyzer configurations for the selective conversion of CO2 to multicarbon products. This project will take place at TU Delft, but is in the framework of a national project and collaborations with other Dutch universities, research institutes and industrial partners is foreseen.

Specifically, we are looking to design and assemble a suitable (scaled) electrolyzer to test newly developed gas diffusion electrodes for CO2 reduction. The assembled cell should have optimal heat and mass transfer, together with minimized electrical resistances. Additionally, we are interested in studying potential crossover of products to the anolyte, and thus unwanted oxidation of products, and investigating the recycling of gas and liquid streams coming from the electrolyzer. The project is also linked with researchers investigating CO2 capture, in an effort to integrate CO2 capture and conversion.

This project will thus involve hands on work in designing, making and operating a (scaled) CO2 electrolyzer. Design and assembly work will be supported by our in-house workshop as well as available workshops on campus. For the operation of the electrolyzer, product analysis is key and hence we will make use of gas chromatography, HPLC and NMR procedures that are available in the group. The project requires a variety of knowledge related to electrochemistry, electrocatalysis, product analysis and electrolyzer design, and as such we highly encourage researchers with a background in CO2 electrolysis, fuel cell research or water electrolysis to apply for this position.  

The position will be in the Kortlever Group, that is part of the section Large-Scale Energy Storage in the Department of Process & Energy. The Kortlever Group is a relatively young group consisting of 11 PhD students and 1 postdoc, working on electrocatalytic processes at multiple scales. More information about the group can be found on the website: www.kortlevergroup.com. The project itself is part of a bigger national consortium (RELEASE, http://www.nwo-release.nl/). The work will also contribute to TU Delft’s e-Refinery Institute on electrochemical synthesis that includes >20 principal investigators across the campus at different departments and faculties.

You have recently completed a PhD degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or Material Science, with a focus on electrochemistry/electrochemical engineering. You have excellent academic qualifications and a strong drive to design and explore new electrolyzer configurations and understand the processes taking place inside the electrolyzer using state-of-the art characterization techniques. Strong experimental as well as communicative skills and a pioneering mentality are essential for this project. A background in electrolyzer design and operation, electrocatalysis or CO2 reduction is a strong asset. The succesfull candidate will also act as a mentor and co-supervisor for junior (PhD and MSc.) researchers.

Fixed-term contract: 36 months.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (salary indication: €3.491 - €4.402). The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation. An International Children's Centre offers childcare and there is an international primary school.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

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Faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

The Faculty of 3mE carries out pioneering research, leading to new fundamental insights and challenging applications in the field of mechanical engineering. From large-scale energy storage, medical instruments, control technology and robotics to smart materials, nanoscale structures and autonomous ships. The foundations and results of this research are reflected in outstanding, contemporary education, inspiring students and PhD candidates to become socially engaged and responsible engineers and scientists. The faculty of 3mE is a dynamic and innovative faculty with an international scope and high-tech lab facilities. Research and education focus on the design, manufacture, application and modification of products, materials, processes and mechanical devices, contributing to the development and growth of a sustainable society, as well as prosperity and welfare.

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