The energy transition requires novel devices and materials, which will need large amounts of a range of critical elements. Examples are iridium for hydrogen production and platinum in fuel cells. The energy transition will enormously increase the demand for such devices, meaning that we have to use the available critical elements as efficient as possible; this can be done by nanostructuring them.

This project will run under the supervision of prof. Ruud van Ommen in the chemical engineering department of TU Delft. It aims at developing scalable approaches for depositing nanostructured materials on large-area substrates, to be used in electrochemical conversions. In this project, you will work on combining atomic layer deposition (a gas-based method) and nano ink spraying (a liquid-based method) with industrially applicable roll-to-roll technology. In this way, we will enable the production of large areas of membranes and electrodes for electrochemical conversions with nano-scale precision. We will combine experimental work with modelling to study the scale-up potential and assess economic viability. Since we build on the strengths of the two partnering university groups (the group of prof. Ruud van Ommen at TU Delft and the group of prof. Doris Segets at the University of Duisburg-Essen) together with industrial partners, we will be able to make quick steps forward. There are two positions available: one focusing on experimental work, and one with the emphasis on modelling at the device scale.

We support you to become a future leader in materials for the energy transition. This project will prepare you for a future career in academia and industry. Your responsibilities include scientific research (e.g., method development and application) as well as project organization and collaboration with our partner group in Germany and with industry. If you want, you can be involved in teaching activities and funding acquisition. We facilitate collaborations and provide many opportunities to connect to the academic and industry communities. Finally, your work will contribute to the transition to sustainable chemical systems and you will have the opportunity to work in an interdisciplinary environment and interact with world-class collaborators.     

We are looking for candidates that meet the following criteria:

• Hold a Ph.D. degree in STEM (preferably in Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering or a related discipline)
• Excellent experimental or modelling/simulation skills, depending on the position you prefer
• Combine creativity with a sound academic attitude
• Ability to work in a team and mentor students
• Ability to communicate scientific results
• Excellent oral and written English with good presentation skills.

Preferred qualifications:

• Experience with atomic layer deposition and/or nano-ink spraying
• Experience with scaling up technology
• Experience with materials for electrochemical conversions

Fixed-term contract: 15 months (with the possibility of extension).

Contract: 15 months (with the possiblity of extension)

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. 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 as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty Applied Sciences

With more than 1,000 employees, including 135 pioneering principal investigators, as well as a population of about 3,400 passionate students, the Faculty of Applied Sciences is an inspiring scientific ecosystem. Focusing on key enabling technologies, such as quantum- and nanotechnology, photonics, biotechnology, synthetic biology and materials for energy storage and conversion, our faculty aims to provide solutions to important problems of the 21st century. To that end, we train students in broad Bachelor's and specialist Master's programmes with a strong research component. Our scientists conduct ground-breaking fundamental and applied research in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Engineering Physics. We are also training the next generation of high school teachers and science communicators.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Applied Sciences.