Cost reductions throughout the supply chain have made green hydrogen a competitive green energy carrier for industrial and commercial applications. However, large quantities of green hydrogen cannot be supplied cost-effectively and efficiently for different reasons, including the process instability. An important parameter in green hydrogen scale-up is the durability of the electrodes used in electrolyzers.

This postdoc project will be working together with the industrial and academic partners in a large consortium aiming at the development of a novel electrolyzer for green hydrogen production. The main research focus of this postdoc project is to mechanistically study the corrosion behavior of the fabricated electrodes and suggest/develop anti-corrosion methods/coatings together with other project partners.

Department
The Department of Materials Science and Engineering undertakes innovative research dedicated to developing, producing, characterizing, and manipulating materials, with a focus on metals. Our goal is to enhance fundamental understanding, forming the basis for better performance, a longer life cycle, and preserved functionality, while at the same time improving the sustainable use of resources. With a focus on metals and metal-related materials, the MSE department conducts research dedicated to the sustainable development and characterization of materials that perform better, last longer, enhance functionality, conserve resources, and have a low environmental footprint, bridging the gap between social needs and available resources.

It is expected that you will:

• Setup the experimental platform required for this project
• Conduct electrochemical spectroscopy, surface analysis and corrosion testing.
• Suggest, develop and test anti-corrosion methods and materials
• Communicate the experimental results with supervisors and consortium parties involved.
• Publish results in high-impact peer-reviewed journals.
• Engage in education activities, such as supervising PhD and MSc students.

You should have the following qualifications:

• PhD in materials science, chemical engineering, or a related area.
• Experience with corrosion, electrochemistry, and surface analysis.
• Experience with electrocatalyst materials (preferably).
• Eager to conduct a multidisciplinary project.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to be a team player in a multidisciplinary setting.
• Excellent fundamental research mindset with application affinity.
• Self-starter with initiative and ability to set up, organize and execute your research.

Fixed-term contract: 1 year.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (salary indication: € 3.548 - € 4.474). 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.

This postdoc position has a fixed-term contract of 1 year.

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.

Challenge. Change. Impact! 

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.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering. Do you want to experience working at our faculty? This video will introduce you to some of our researchers and their work.