The SH2IPDRIVE project develops zero emission power and propulsion solutions for ships based on hydrogen in a broad consortium across the Dutch maritime sector, from fleet owner to ship designer and from shipyard to start-up. In this project, Delft University of Technology performs applied and fundamental research into hydrogen storage in liquid organic carriers and metal hydrides, hydrogen bunkering, fuel cell systems, system integration, data collection and safety for ships. The researchers, consisting of 9 PhD positions, one postdoc position and an experienced supervision team of the M&TT and P&E department of the 3ME faculty, develop models, methodologies, algorithms and concept designs for hydrogen power and propulsion systems for ships.

In this position, you will work on the integration of high temperature solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) systems in the onboard heat & energy distribution network of ships. SOFCs hold great potential benefits in terms of fuel flexibility, waste heat recovery and efficiency. However, successful integration in ships require new approaches to design and optimise main and auxiliary systems as well as ship networks. You will develop models to quantify fuel consumption, heat availability and degradation for various duty cycles. These models will be parameterised and validated using experimental and/or operational data. The validated models will be used to develop a framework to scale system components and modularity for different operational profiles.

You will be working in the Marine Engineering group of the Ship Design, Production and Operation section at the Maritime and Transport Technology department. In addition, you will be working closely with other researchers working within SH2IPDRIVE and other related topics and projects, at TU Delft partner institutions and companies. 

We are looking for an outstanding and enthusiastic PhD candidate who has expertise and/or interest in one or more of the following areas: thermodynamics, dynamic modelling, process design, electrochemistry or similar areas. You have obtained an MSc or an equivalent degree or expect to obtain an MSc very soon related to these areas (mechanical engineering, marine engineering, chemical engineering or other related fields). Good spoken and written English and the ability to work in a team are mandatory (a minimum requirement of a TOEFL score of 100 or IELTS of 7.0 applies to all candidates wanting to pursue a PhD or PDEng programme at TU Delft). 

TU Delft offers PhD-candidates a 4-year contract, with an official go/no go progress assessment after one year. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2434 per month in the first year to € 3111 in the fourth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts 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.

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.