The theme of this PhD position will be the design of systems that optimize/maximize reaction rates and selectivities at high current density operation. While we know how to use materials properties (composition, electronic structure, morphology) to change reaction rates/selectivities, we need to find operational knobs to turn as well.

Goal: This PhD will develop a reactor system to match with our existing materials expertise to understand and control all aspects of a high-current density electrochemical device.

This position is part of e-Refinery. Electrosynthesis is a promising approach to electrify the manufacturing of fuels, chemicals and materials and to contribute to large-scale energy storage. Given the Dutch strategic position in the international chemical, renewable energy and transport sectors, the e-Refinery programme at TU Delft aims to develop systems to convert electricity into molecular bonds, by bundling and leveraging its activities in the associated research and education fields. The Delft e-Refinery programme covers and connects all system layers, from the molecular scale to the industrial system scale. It involves faculty members at four faculties and a multitude of PhD candidates and postdocs. The e-Refinery programme features a diverse and up-to-date research infrastructure across campus, with electrochemical labs, material labs, equipment and devices labs, power labs and a system simulation suite. TOeLS: Towards Large-Scale electro-conversion systems, is one major project within e-Refinery.  The TOeLS project is co-funded by Shell and the Topsectors Chemistry, HTSM and Energy (Urban Energy and Biobased Economy). TOeLS comprises 1 full professor position, 2 tenure track positions and 9 PhD positions. For all these positions we count on an active participation in project-transcending activities within TOeLS and the e-Refinery community to accelerate innovations across scales and across disciplines.

Relevant links:

• www.tudelft.nl/e-refinery
• https://www.tudelft.nl/en/2019/3me/maart/tu-delft-shell-and-the-government-invest-5-million-euros-towards-sustainable-breakthrough-in-the-chemical-industry/
  

You have a recently completed master degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering, preferably with a focus on reactor engineering and/or electrochemistry. You have excellent academic qualifications and a strong motivation to create the electrochemical reactors of a future chemical industry. Strong experimental as well as communicative skills and a pioneering mentality are essential for this project.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An International Children’s Centre offers childcare and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment; an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor; and a Doctoral Education Programme aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills. Please visit www.tudelft.nl/phd for more information.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

https://www.tudelft.nl

Faculty Applied Sciences

The Faculty of Applied Sciences is the largest faculty of TU Delft, with around 550 scientists, a support staff of 250 and 1,800 students. The faculty conducts fundamental, application-oriented research and offers scientific education at the bachelor, master and doctoral levels. The faculty is active in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Applied Physics.

The position is in the Department of Chemical Engineering (http://www.cheme.tudelft.nl). The mission of Chemical Engineering is to generate knowledge and educate people in the area of nano chemical engineering to improve the quality of life for a sustainable society, focusing on energy, water, health and environment. Building upon its proven strength in Chemical Engineering, the Department develops the science and technology of functional nanostructured systems, from molecules up to the design of products and processes. Scientific and technological breakthroughs are attained through international and multidisciplinary teamwork. Our inspiring and adventurous environment facilitates growth of our students and employees as responsible and innovative personalities.

https://www.tudelft.nl/en/faculty-of-applied-sciences